bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eicosapentaenoic acid versus placebo as adjunctive therapy in chronic migraine: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mohammadnezhad Ghader , Assarzadegan Farhad , Koosha Mohsen , Esmaily Hadi
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study was conducted to assess the efficacy of daily 2000 mg eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) supplementation in individuals with chronic migraine.

Background

Chronic migraine is characterized by a minimum of 15 headache days/month, necessitating a focus on preventive treatment strategies. EPA, a polyunsaturated fatty acid recognized for its anti‐inflammatory properties, is examined for its potential effectiveness in chronic migraine management.

Methods

A randomized, blinded, placebo‐controlled trial of eligible participants with a confirmed diagnosis of chronic migraine were enrolled. The intervention group received 1000 mg of EPA twice daily for 8 weeks, while the control group received two placebo softgels. Symptoms were recorded at 4 and 8 weeks. The primary outcome was assessed using the Headache Impact Test‐6 to evaluate changes in patients. Secondary outcomes encompassed migraine headache days, headache severity measured via a visual analog scale, and the number of consumed painkillers. Descriptive analyses were reported in mean (± standard deviation [SD]).

Results

A total of 60 patients were included in the study and finally, 56 patients completed the study according to the protocol, including 47 (84%) females. The data comparison at baseline did not show any significant difference between the two groups except in the number of patients using valproic acid as prophylaxis (21 patients in the EPA group, and 13 in the placebo group; p = 0.037). The results showed after 8 weeks, a mean (SD) difference of Headache Impact Test‐6 in the EPA and placebo groups was −6.96 (3.34) and −4.43 (5.24), respectively (p = 0.084). Regarding migraine headache days, participants reported a mean (SD) −9.76 (4.15) and −4.60 (4.87) decline in days with headache, respectively (p < 0.001). The number of attacks per month after 8 weeks was 3.0 (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.0–4.0) and 4.0 (95% CI 3.0–6.0), respectively (p < 0.001). Regarding severity, there was no significant difference between the two groups (mean [SD] difference: −0.76 [1.13] and –0.73 [1.04], respectively; p = 0.906). In terms of adverse events, two patients in the EPA group reported intolerable nausea and vomiting, and one patient in the placebo group reported dizziness.

Conclusions

This study's findings support the potential of a daily 2000 mg EPA as a prophylactic pharmacotherapy in chronic migraine management, specifically in mitigating migraine attacks, migraine headache days, and overall quality of life.
Symptoms across the phases of the migraine cycle from the patient's perspective: Results of the MiCOAS qualitative study
Authors: McGinley James S. , Mangrum Rikki , Gerstein Maya T. , McCarrier Kelly P. , Houts Carrie R. , Buse Dawn C. , Bryant Alexandra L. , Wirth R. J. , Lipton Richard B.
Published: September 2024

Objective

To better understand the breadth and frequency of symptoms across the phases of the migraine cycle using data captured from qualitative patient interviews conducted through the Migraine Clinical Outcome Assessment System (MiCOAS) project.

Background

People living with migraine experience a range of symptoms across the pre‐headache, headache, post‐headache, and interictal phases of the migraine cycle. Although clinical diagnostic criteria and clinical trial endpoints focus largely on cardinal symptoms or monthly migraine days, migraine symptom profiles are far more complex. As a part of the MiCOAS project, semi‐structured qualitative interviews were undertaken to better understand the migraine‐related symptomology from the patient's viewpoint.

Methods

This concept elicitation study used iterative purposeful sampling to select 40 people with self‐reported medical diagnosis of migraine for interviews that were conducted via audio‐only web conferencing. Key topics related to migraine symptoms, including mood/emotion symptoms, were identified using content analysis. Interview transcripts were also coded to reflect the phase of migraine under discussion, so that patient experiences could be compared by phase.

Results

Forty participants (50%, n = 20 episodic migraine; 50%, n = 20 chronic migraine), aged from 21 to 70 years old reported a total of 60 unique symptoms, which were categorized into 30 broader symptom categories. Participants reported between 7 and 22 unique symptom categories across all phases. During pre‐headache and headache, participants reported a median of 7.5 (interquartile range [IQR] = 5.5) and 8 (IQR = 4.0) different symptom categories compared to 4 (IQR = 3.0) and 1.5 (IQR = 2.5) for the post‐headache and interictal periods, respectively. Head pain during the headache phase was the only universally reported symptom (100%, n = 40). Pooling across all phases, the next most reported symptoms were light sensitivity (93%, n = 37), nausea (88%, n = 35), irritability/impatience (83%, n = 24), sound sensitivity (80%, n = 32), and fatigue/exhaustion (80%, n = 32). One or more interictal symptoms were reported by 73% (n = 29) of participants and included mood/emotion symptoms, such as anxiety (30%, n = 12), depression (18%, n = 7), and anger (15%, n = 6), as well as cardinal symptoms, such as light sensitivity (13%, n = 5) and nausea (13%, n = 5).

Conclusions

Patients experience a range of symptoms across the phases of the migraine cycle. Results often aligned with clinical expectations, but non‐cardinal migraine‐related symptoms were reported both inside and outside the headache phase, including between attacks. These discoveries highlight the importance of assessing a range of symptoms and timing when developing patient‐reported outcome measures for migraine clinical trials.
Trajectories of CD4 T‐cell count, CD8 T‐cell count, and CD4/CD8 ratio in patients with HIV and long‐term virological suppression based on Yunnan HIV cohort
Authors: Shu Yuanlu , Zhang Mi , Li Jianjian , Deng Xuemei , Liu Jiafa , Yang Cuixian , Dong Xingqi
Published: September 2024

Objective

Our objective was to evaluate the trajectory of immunology in patients with HIV with different baseline CD4 T‐cell count strata after antiretroviral therapy (ART) under long‐term viral suppression.

Methods

This was a sub‐analysis focused on patients with virological suppression for at least 5 years after ART. Data were obtained from the Yunnan HIV cohort in China. Patients were categorized according to prespecified baseline CD4 T‐cell counts. The trajectories of CD4 T‐cell count, CD8 T‐cell count, and CD4/CD8 ratio changing over time were fitted using a B‐spline regression model. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to assess the association of baseline CD4 T‐cell count with the risk of both immunological responder (IR) and CD4/CD8 ratio normalization.

Results

A total of 2618 patients with a median follow‐up of 7.25 years (interquartile range [IQR] 5.92–8.75) were included. Over a period of 12 years, the mean CD4 T‐cell count remained above 500 cells/μL in all groups. The mean CD4/CD8 ratio was solely normalized in patients whose baseline CD4 T‐cell counts were above 350 cells/μL. Patients with higher baseline CD4 T‐cell counts showed higher risks of both IR and CD4/CD8 ratio normalization than those with the lowest (all p trend <0.001). A higher baseline CD4 T‐cell count predicted a shorter time for both IR and CD4/CD8 ratio normalization.

Conclusions

Long‐term, sustained viral suppression may not be able to fully normalize immunological functions in patients with HIV. A high baseline CD4 T‐cell count benefits IR and CD4/CD8 ratio normalization.
Grading facial aging: Comparing the clinical assessments made by three dermatologists with those obtained by an AI‐based scoring system that analyses selfie pictures. A focus on Chinese subjects of both genders
Authors: Wang Wenna , Flament Frederic , Wang Hequn , Ye Chengda , Jiang Ruowei , Houghton Jeff , Liu Wei
Published: September 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to assess the correspondence, in live conditions, between clinical gradings of facial aging signs by three dermatologists and those afforded by an automatic AI‐based algorithm that analyses smartphones' selfie images of Chinese subjects.

Methods

In total, 125 Chinese subjects of both genders, aged 18–62y, took a selfie using their own smartphones and were immediately viewed by three dermatologists. The latter graded the severity of 15 facial signs in women and 9 in men, using the standardized values afforded by a Skin Aging Atlas referential dedicated to Asian skin. The data issued by both methodologies were then statistically compared.

Results

The absolute gradings of the automatic system were found highly correlated with clinical assessments, with lower values in most cases. In women, large differences in absolute values were found on the gradings for size of isolated spot, cheek fold, spread macules, and texture of mouth contour women. Analysis of the Mean Absolute Errors (M.A.E) revealed that these rarely exceed 0.6 grading units in women and to a lesser extent in men.

Conclusion

The present study confirmed the value of the automatic system towards an extended use towards large human cohorts as a surrogate of clinical evaluations and allowed to detect the points where improvements must be brought to the system.
Exploring the potential of cold plasma in Optimising quality and boosting antioxidant defence in fresh‐cut bamboo shoots
Authors: Liu Zhuhui , Zhang Tong , Zhou Haoyu , Xiao Gengsheng , Qin Wen , Liu Shuxiang , Liu Dongjie , Ma Lukai
Published: September 2024

Cold plasma (CP) is a promising technology for fresh‐cut fruits and vegetables. In this study, the effects of CP on postharvest senescence, especially from the perspective of oxidative response of fresh‐cut bamboo shoots were examined, including the colour, firmness, lignin content, reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and antioxidant enzymatic activities. CP treatments delayed the browning of bamboo shoots indicating by the increase of L* and b* values and decrease of a* value. The browning inhibition coincided with the reduction of PPO activities up to 62% by CP at 20 kV. Cellulose and lignin accumulated during storage. CP at 30 kV accelerated lignification, whereas CP at 10 and 20 kV inhibited the increase. These results were also reflected by PAL, CAD and POD activities that were enhanced by CP at 30 kV and inhibited by CP at 10 and 20 kV. The content of O2− and H2O2 was significantly increased at the first 3 days and decreased afterwards, with a similar trend of antioxidant enzymes SOD and CAT. As smaller increases in H2O2 and O2− production in CP treated samples than in control were probably attributed to elevated CP‐induced SOD activity. In addition, there was a delay effect observed in the internal parts of bamboo shoots compared with the surface (<5 mm thick). CP extended the shelf‐life of bamboo shoots by triggering the antioxidant defence. CP at 20 kV exhibited the best preservative effect on fresh‐cut bamboo shoots.
Extracting knowledge from customer reviews: an integrated framework for digital platform analytics
Authors: Kyriakidis Anastasios , Tsafarakis Stelios
Published: September 2024

Online review sites play a crucial role in shaping consumer purchasing decisions, making the analysis of customer feedback essential for businesses. Given the complexity of these reviews, often including both quantitative and qualitative data, advanced analytical frameworks are necessary. To this end, this paper introduces an integrated framework for customer feedback analysis, combining aspect‐based sentiment analysis, multicriteria decision‐making, and a fuzzy rule‐based approach. The proposed system effectively processes both textual and numerical data from online reviews, enabling the extraction of actionable insights. To demonstrate its practical utility, we apply it to a real‐world dataset from a major European airline. The results illustrate the framework's effectiveness in identifying key factors influencing customer satisfaction and pinpointing areas needing improvement. Additionally, data‐driven recommendations are provided to support business decision‐making and enable the customization of products and services to better meet customer expectations.
Does Increasing Concentration Hit Poorer Areas More? A Study of Retail Petroleum Markets*
Authors: Ormosi Peter L. , Bokhari Farasat A. S. , Ennis Sean , Mariuzzo Franco
Published: September 2024

A central tenet in the field of industrial organisation is that increasing/decreasing market concentration is associated with increased/reduced markups. But does this variation affect every consumer to the same extent? Previous literature finds price dispersion exists even for homogeneous goods, at least partially as a result of heterogeneity in consumer engagement with the market. We study this question by linking demographic and income heterogeneity across local areas to the impact of changing market concentration on markups. With 15 years of station‐level motor fuel price data from Western Australia and information on instances of local market exit and entry, we apply a non‐parametric causal forest approach to explore the heterogeneity in the effect of exit/entry. The paper provides evidence of the distributional effect of changing market concentration. Areas with lower income experience a larger increase in petrol stations' price margin as a result of market exit. On the other hand, entry does not benefit the same low‐income areas with a larger reduction in the margin than in high‐income areas. Policy implications include a need to further focus on increasing engagement by low‐income consumers.
Metabolic syndrome traits differentially and cumulatively influence micro‐ and macrovascular disease risk in patients with MASLD
Authors: Henney Alex E. , Riley David R. , Hydes Theresa J. , Anson Matthew , Ibarburu Gema H. , Zhao Sizheng S. , Cuthbertson Daniel J. , Alam Uazman
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The cumulative impact of metabolic syndrome (MetS) components on micro‐ and macrovascular disease in metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is unclear. We aimed to determine whether the number of the MetS components increases the risk of micro‐ and macrovascular disease in patients with MASLD.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of electronic medical records using the TriNetX network, a global federated database. The exposure arm was patients with hepatic steatosis (defined via International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision coding, or modified hepatic steatosis index), and ≥1 MetS components (obesity/central adiposity, insulin resistance, hypertension, or dyslipidaemia), compared with a reference arm of adults without any MetS components or hepatic steatosis. Our propensity score matched (1:1) for confounders with 5 years of follow‐up. Primary outcomes included microvascular (peripheral neuropathy, retinopathy, and nephropathy) and macrovascular (cardiovascular events, cerebrovascular accidents, and peripheral vascular disease) disease. Secondary analyses assessed the impact of additional MetS components on these outcomes, as well as the impact of sex.

Results

MASLD, defined by hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance (n = 15 937), carried the highest risk of microvascular disease (HR 13.93 (95% CI 8.55–22.68)), whilst MASLD, defined by hepatic steatosis and hypertension (n = 53 028), carried the highest risk of macrovascular disease (7.23 (6.45–8.13)). MASLD with all MetS components carried greatest risk of both micro‐ (31.20 (28.88–33.70) (n = 462 789)) and macrovascular (8.04 (7.33–8.82) (n = 336 010)) disease.

Conclusion

We demonstrate a differential effect of MetS components on micro‐ and macrovascular disease risk in patients with MASLD, with a cumulative impact of multiple MetS on overall risk. The impact of MetS components was most pronounced in women. Aggressive metabolic risk factor management is critical for prevention of micro‐ and macrovascular complications.
Socioeconomic factors associated with the presence of and outcomes in metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease
Authors: Nasr Patrik , Shang Ying , Wester Axel , Strandberg Rickard , Widman Linnea , Lazarus Jeffrey V. , Hagström Hannes
Published: September 2024

Background and Aims

The association between socioeconomic factors and disease severity is not well studied in people living with metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). We thus examined if socioeconomic factors influence the presence of, or risk for future, major adverse liver outcomes (MALOs) in people living with MASLD.

Methods

We conducted a register‐based cohort study that included all individuals with a MASLD diagnosis between 1987 and 2020 in Sweden. Logistic and Cox regression were used to examine the association between socioeconomic factors (country of birth, educational level, and marital status) and the presence of MALOs before or upon MASLD diagnosis or during follow‐up, respectively.

Results

In total, 14 026 people living with MASLD were identified, among whom the median age was 55 years, 50% were male and 775 (5.5%) had MALOs before or upon diagnosis. The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for pre‐existing MALOs was higher in divorced (aOR = 1.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.06–1.57) compared to married individuals. The aOR for pre‐existing MALOs was lower among those with >12 years of education (aOR = .76, 95% CI = .62–.93) compared to individuals with an education level of 10–12 years. During a 5.2‐year median follow‐up, several socioeconomic factors were associated with increased rates of developing MALOs in a crude model; however, none were independently associated with incident MALOs after adjustment for confounders.

Conclusions

Socioeconomic factors were associated with somewhat higher odds for prevalent, but not incident, MALOs in people living with MASLD, after adjustments. This suggests primarily that risk factors for fibrosis progression are differently distributed across socioeconomic subgroups.
Equilibrium vertical structure with a common supplier
Authors: Choi Kangsik , Han Sangheon , Lee DongJoon
Published: September 2024

We consider a vertically related market, in which each downstream firm produces a differentiated product by assembling a key input produced by a common supplier and another input produced by a dedicated upstream firm. On the one hand, vertical integration has the advantage of inducing the common supplier to set a lower input price, but the disadvantage of reducing downstream firms' competitiveness in the downstream market. On the other hand, vertical separation has the advantage of increasing downstream firms' competitiveness in the downstream market but the disadvantage of inducing the common supplier to set a higher input price. Contrary to results of previous studies, we find that the existence of a common supplier can lead to vertical integration under Cournot competition, which emerges as a unique equilibrium when a common supplier adopts input discrimination. Although vertical integration is better for the individual firms, it reduces the total welfare. Even when the common supplier uses uniform input pricing, vertical integration also emerges in equilibrium.
Abscisic acid‐induced H2O2 production positively regulates the activity of SAPK8/9/10 through oxidation of the type one protein phosphatase OsPP47
Authors: Qin Caihua , Fan Xing , Fang Qianqian , Yu Honghua , Ni Lan , Jiang Mingyi
Published: September 2024

Subclass III sucrose nonfermenting1‐related protein kinase 2s (SnRK2s) are positive regulators of abscisic acid (ABA) signaling and abiotic stress responses. However, the underlying activation mechanisms of osmotic stress/ABA‐activated protein kinase 8/9/10 (SAPK8/9/10) of rice (Oryza sativa) subclass III SnRK2s in ABA signaling remain to be elucidated.

In this study, we employed biochemical, molecular biology, cell biology, and genetic approaches to identify the molecular mechanism by which OsPP47, a type one protein phosphatase in rice, regulates SAPK8/9/10 activity in ABA signaling.

We found that OsPP47 not only physically interacted with SAPK8/9/10 but also interacted with ABA receptors PYLs. OsPP47 negatively regulated ABA sensitivity in seed germination and root growth. In the absence of ABA, OsPP47 directly inactivated SAPK8/9/10 by dephosphorylation. In the presence of ABA, ABA‐bound OsPYL2 formed complexes with OsPP47 and inhibited its phosphatase activity, partially releasing the inhibition of SAPK8/9/10. SAPK8/9/10‐mediated H2O2 production inhibited OsPP47 activity by oxidizing Cys‐116 and Cys‐256 to form OsPP47 oligomers, resulting in not only preventing the OsPP47‐SAPK8/9/10 interaction but also blocking the inhibition of SAPK8/9/10 activity by OsPP47.

Our results reveal novel pathways for the inhibition of SAPK8/9/10 in the basal state and for the activation of SAPK8/9/10 induced by ABA in rice.
What the golden rule teaches us about ethics
Authors: Ward Shane William
Published: September 2024

The Golden Rule is regularly used in ordinary life, across many different cultures, to acquire new moral knowledge. At the same time, the Golden Rule is widely ignored both in ethics and metaethics because it seems to be an implausible normative theory. Most philosophers who have paid it any attention have thought that, at best, it is an initially tempting thought whose appeal should be explained by the ultimately correct normative theory. My aim in this paper is to attend to an alternative possibility: the Golden Rule teaches us something about metaethics, in the form of moral epistemology, rather than normative ethics. I will argue that sentimentalism, the view that the emotions are an essential source of moral knowledge, provides a compelling explanation of the usefulness of the Golden Rule. Before giving the sentimentalist explanation, I explain why proposed alternative sources of moral knowledge provide less compelling explanations of its usefulness.
“I feel I should put that work in”: Discourses of effortfulness and essentialism among post‐Brexit applicants for Irish citizenship
Authors: Scully Marc
Published: September 2024

This article explores the post‐Brexit increase in applications for Irish passports through descent, and in so doing, seeks to develop a social/political psychology of diasporic citizenship. It draws on a focus group and 10 individual interviews, all conducted in 2018–19; participants were all based in England and had applied, or were in the process of applying, for Irish passports through descent in the aftermath of Brexit. Analysis, using perspectives from discursive psychology, attended to both rhetoric and narratives of citizenship in participants' talk about the application process and identification with Ireland and Irishness. Participants draw on discourses of both effortfulness and essentialism in working up claims to Irish identity, with effortfulness in acquiring transnational knowledge being particularly central in rhetorically legitimizing less secure claims. The analysis thus builds on previous political psychological work highlighting the centrality of “effortfulness” to contemporary constructions of citizenship, particularly in the United Kingdom (Anderson & Gibson, 2020; Gibson, 2009). It is furthermore suggested that explicitly labeled “noneffortfulness” can act as a rhetorical marker of belonging. The implications of these findings for concepts of diasporic citizenship and debates around jus soli versus jus sanguinis citizenship in both Ireland and Britain are discussed.
HAIRY MERISTEM proteins regulate the WUSCHEL protein levels in mediating CLAVATA3 expression
Authors: Rodriguez Kevin , Kao Lloyd , Cerbantez‐Bueno Vincent E. , Delgadillo Christian , Nguyen Dorothy , Ullah Samin , Delgadillo Cameron , Reddy G. Venugopala
Published: September 2024

The precise regulation of stem cells in the shoot apical meristems (SAMs) involves the function of the homeodomain transcription factor (TF)‐WUSCHEL (WUS). WUS has been shown to move from the site of production‐the rib‐meristem (RM), into overlaying cells of the central zone (CZ), where it specifies stem cells and also regulates the transcription of CLAVATA3 (CLV3). The secreted signalling peptide CLV3 activates a receptor kinase signalling that restricts WUS transcription and also regulates the nuclear gradient of WUS by offsetting nuclear export. WUS has been shown to regulate both CLV3 levels and spatial activation, restricting its expression to a few cells in the CZ. The HAIRY MERISTEM (HAM), a GRASS‐domain class of TFs expressed in the RM, has been shown to physically interact with WUS and regulate CLV3 expression. However, the mechanisms by which this interaction regulates CLV3 expression non‐cell autonomously remain unclear. Here, we show that HAM function is required for regulating the WUS protein stability, and the CLV3 expression responds to altered WUS protein levels in ham mutants. Thus, HAM proteins non‐cell autonomously regulates CLV3 expression.
ACCELERATED CELLDEATH 6 is a crucial genetic factor shaping the natural diversity of age‐ and salicylic acid‐induced leaf senescence in Arabidopsis
Authors: Lyu Jae Il , Kim Jin Hee , Chuong Nguyen Nguyen , Doan Phan Phuong Thao , Chu Hyosub , Baek Seung Hee , Lim Pyung Ok , Kim Jeongsik
Published: September 2024

Leaf senescence is a crucial process throughout evolution, vital for plant fitness as it facilitates the gradual shift of energy allocation between photosynthesis and catabolism overtime. This onset is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors, making senescence a key adaptation mechanism for plants in their natural habitats. Our study investigated the genetic mechanism underlying age‐induced leaf senescence in Arabidopsis natural populations. Using a phenome high‐throughput investigator, we comprehensively analyzed senescence responses across 234 Arabidopsis accessions and identified that environmental factors (e.g., ambient temperature) and physiological factors (e.g., defense responses) are substantially linked to senescence phenotypes. Through genome‐wide association mapping, we identified the ACCELERATED CELL DEATH 6 (ACD6) locus as a potential regulator of senescence variation among natural accessions. Knocking out ACD6 in accessions with early and delayed senescence phenotypes resulted in varying degrees of delay in age‐induced senescence, highlighting the accession‐dependent regulatory role of ACD6 in leaf senescence. Furthermore, our findings suggest ACD6's involvement in senescence regulation via the salicylic acid signaling pathway. In summary, our study sheds light on the genetic regulation of leaf senescence in Arabidopsis natural populations, with the discovery of ACD6 as a potential candidate for genetic modification to enhance plant adaptation and survival.
The adaptation of lichen symbiosis to desert saline‐alkali stress depends more on their symbiotic algae
Authors: Li Biting , Mamuti Reyim , Xiao Liting , Qian Ben , Wang Yanyan , Wei Xinli
Published: September 2024

Soil salinization is a major environmental threat to the entire terrestrial ecosystem. Lichens arose from the symbiosis of fungi and algae or cyanobacteria. They have a high tolerance to various extreme environments, including adaptation to saline‐alkali habitats. Thus, lichens are pioneer species on saline‐alkali soil. However, the separate resilience of the two symbiotic partners under saline‐alkali conditions remains insufficiently understood. In this study, two representative symbiotic algae, Diplosphaera chodatii and Trebouxia jamesii, were studied for their physiological response to the saline‐alkali stress by adjusting different concentrations of NaHCO3, together with their respective symbiotic fungi Endocarpon pusillum (terricolous lichen) and Umbilicaria muhlenbergii (saxicolous lichen). The results indicate that cell growth rate and biomass in all four cultures decreased in alkali‐alkaline substrate, while cellular activities and ultrastructure were affected to a distinct extent. Compared with the symbiotic fungi, the algae were found to be more active in coordinating oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation damage under the saline‐alkali stress. The antioxidant system of the alga was especially shown as a key adaptive trait and it provides an important strategy for species survival and persistence in arid saline‐alkali desert. The specific survival ability of the lichen symbiosis relies on the stress resilience advantages of the symbiotic partners in combination. Our study provided new insights into understanding the adaptation of lichen symbiosis to desert saline‐alkali soil, and the potential of lichen symbiotic algae in the future desert ecological restoration.
Enhancing coral restoration practices in Seychelles: benefits and limitations of fishing lines and rope as coral stocking methods
Authors: Dale Charlotte , Antoine Athina , Strona Giovanni , Bell Michael , Shah Nirmal , Saponari Luca
Published: September 2024

Coral restoration plays a pivotal role in mitigating the decline of coral reefs, increasing the need for implementing effective techniques and methodologies. This study investigates the efficacy of stocking Acropora muricata and Pocillopora grandis using fishing line versus rope in mid‐water floating nurseries, offering valuable insights for coral restoration practitioners. Over 1 year, survival, tissue cover, growth, cleaning time, cost, preparation, and stocking timing for both methods were evaluated. Fishing line reduced contact with fouling organisms, contributing to enhanced coral tissue cover and growth rates for P. grandis compared to rope, but no significant effect was detected for A. muricata. Survival differed among species, with higher rates for P. grandis compared to A. muricata, indicating no impact due to stocking methods but species‐specific differences. Challenges like nursery collapses and amphipod outbreaks may have impacted survival, emphasizing the importance of consistent maintenance and accessibility of project sites. Furthermore, the fishing line method reduced cleaning effort. However, cost considerations and preparation complexities for fishing line warrant careful evaluation, particularly with regards to project budgets. The study underscores the necessity for further research, incorporating diverse genotypes, species, and initial fragment sizes to refine restoration strategies. In summary, this study provides important guidance for coral restoration practitioners, aiding informed decisions on stocking methods for different projects and species while considering the balance between coral health benefits and operational feasibility.
Commemorating festive performances in popular print in sixteenth‐century Italy☆
Authors: Versendaal Rozanne
Published: September 2024

The aim of this article is to show that the popular print sold and distributed during and after festive events, such as Carnival, had an impact on the commemoration and shaping of festive culture in early modern Italy. That is, the mass medium of print that had begun to shape European cultures, especially in Italy where Venice was one of Europe's first major printing centres, created festive pamphlets and small books that were attractive for individuals in various cities in Northern and Central Italy. This becomes apparent not only from the sources themselves but also from the connections that exist between these sources and historical and theatrical contexts. A study of popular print related to festive events addresses the most important criticisms of festival studies, namely that festivals were primarily local affairs, which would prevent researchers from making a meaningful contribution to festive culture studies on a larger scale. This article aims to overcome this by studying a selection of affordable pamphlets and small books, presenting the Carnivalesque text La guerra di Carnovale contro la Quaresima, which was intended for large audiences.
Climate risk and green total factor productivity in agriculture: The moderating role of climate policy uncertainty
Authors: Wang Miao , Song Yangle , Zhang Xinmin
Published: September 2024

In light of the escalating global warming and the escalating frequency of extreme weather events, the agricultural sector, being a fundamental and pivotal industry worldwide, is encountering substantial challenges due to climate change. Using Chinese provincial panel data for 2000–2021, this paper utilizes a two‐way fixed‐effect model to investigate the impact of Climate Risk (CR) on green total factor productivity in agriculture (AGTFP), with China's climate policy uncertainty (CPU) being introduced as a moderating variable within the research framework to scrutinize its influence in this context. The findings reveal a noteworthy adverse effect of CR on AGTFP, further exacerbated by CPU. Heterogeneity analysis results show that there is a clear regional variation in the effect of CR on AGTFP across different Chinese regions, with CR significantly inhibiting AGTFP development in the northern regions and provinces in major grain producing regions. Consequently, there is a pressing necessity to bolster the establishment of climate change monitoring infrastructures, devise tailored climate adaptation strategies at a regional level, and enhance the clarity and predictability of climate policies to fortify the resilience and sustainability of agricultural production systems.
The effectiveness of exercise in alleviating long COVID symptoms: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Cheng Xueyan , Cao Mengyao , Yeung Wing‐Fai , Cheung Denise Shuk Ting
Published: September 2024

Background

Long COVID is prevalent in the general population. Exercise is a promising component of rehabilitation for long COVID patients.

Aim

This study examined the effects of exercise interventions on managing long COVID symptoms.

Methods

In this systematic review and meta‐analysis, a systematic search was conducted through June 2023 using keywords such as “long COVID” and “post‐acute COVID‐19 syndrome” among major electronic databases. Randomized controlled trials that examined the effect of exercise on patients suffering from long COVID were included. Nine studies involving 672 individuals were included in this study.

Results

The main outcomes for exercise interventions in patients with long COVID were fatigue, dyspnea, anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment. The exercise interventions comprised aerobic exercise, multimodal exercise, breathing exercise, and Taichi. Most of the included studies (6/9) were at high risk of bias. According to the meta‐analyses, exercise significantly improved long COVID fatigue (ES = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.27 to 1.50) and dyspnea (ES = 1.21, 95% CI [0.33, 2.09]), whereas no significant effect was identified on long COVID anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment. According to subgroup analyses, multimodal exercise had the broadest spectrum of benefits on long COVID symptoms (including fatigue, dyspnea, and depression), and supervised exercise, intervention frequency ≤4 times a week, the passive control group also showed a positive effect on some long COVID symptoms.
A Five-Level Common-Ground Inverter with Dynamic Voltage Boost and Fewer Elements for Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: MUSSA AL-MAMOORI DALYA HAMZAH , Shahrin Md Ayob  , Ali A. Abdullah Albakry  , Razman Ayop
Published: September 2024

Transformer-less multilevel inverters (TL-MLIs) are the subject of recent research due to their high-voltage or high-power capacity to convert low-voltage output from renewable energy sources into the desired output. They are also less expensive and smaller than traditional varieties. Nevertheless, leakage current is a common problem with these inverters. The proposed inverter aims to address this issue to the maximum extent possible. In the proposed inverter structure, there is a common ground for the input and output terminals. As a result, the overall common mode voltage (CMV) remains constant. This common ground feature short-circuits the Photovoltaic (PV) source to the grid parasitic capacitor, resulting in negligible leakage current. Furthermore, the proposed inverter boosts output voltage using the least amount of power devices and a single voltage source. The proposed inverter can be used modularly, increasing the number of output levels that can be achieved. The simulation results from MATLAB/Simulink and the conclusion of the mathematical analysis for the proposed inverter are shown. The results also demonstrate the output voltage boost capability, zero leakage current, and an appropriate total harmonic distortion for the output voltage and current waveforms.
Reviewing Approaches and Techniques for Detecting Suspicious Human Behavior: A Comprehensive Survey
Authors: Wong Khai Chiuan , Mohd Ridzuan bin Ahmad
Published: September 2024

The paper aims to review related works that focus on detecting suspicious human behavior using machine-learning techniques. Suspicious human behavior refers to behaviors that may indicate involvement in or preparation for a crime. Detecting such behaviors before a crime is committed allows law enforcement to take early action and prevent criminal activities. One of the challenges in developing an effective detection system for suspicious human behavior is the absence of a well-defined definition for such behaviors. Different definitions can lead to various methods for designing the detection system. The paper explores different definitions and their implications on the design of detection systems and mentions two types of methods that can be used for detecting suspicious human behavior: image-based methods and saliency mapping. Image-based methods utilize image or video recognition techniques to analyze objects held by individuals or recognize specific activities. Saliency mapping, on the other hand, focuses on emphasizing the movement of individuals using techniques like optical flow calculation to generate saliency maps. Additionally, the paper highlights the increasing popularity of embedded machine learning, particularly on portable platforms. The use of embedded machine learning allows for the deployment of machine learning models on mobile or lightweight devices. This can be relevant for developing efficient and portable systems for detecting suspicious human behavior. Overall, the paper aims to provide an overview of existing works in the field of suspicious human behavior detection using machine learning, exploring different definitions and methods employed in the literature.
Identification of Multi-Microgrid Clusters Using Terminal Spectral Clustering Algorithm
Authors: Ibrahim Nurul Nadia , Jamian Jasrul Jamani , Md Rasid Madihah
Published: September 2024

In response to the increasing impact of extreme weather on power distribution networks (PDNs), prioritizing resilience is imperative. This study introduces an innovative k-means spectral clustering algorithm to define the boundaries of microgrids (MGs) within a multi-microgrid (MMG) system. The aim is to improve reliability by clustering PDNs into resilient MGs. The power systems are modeled with nodes representing buses, and connections are represented as edges. The analysis involves computing the adjacency matrix, degree matrix, Laplacian matrix, and applying k-means clustering to group buses based on terminal point features. Silhouette coefficients (SC) are calculated to assess the quality of the clustering. The proposed method is tested on three IEEE distribution systems: IEEE 33, 69, and 118 bus systems. Findings reveal distinct clusters within each system with SC values above 0.68, particularly emphasizing the significance of terminal points as the basis for assisting power engineers in decision-making for predetermined grid partitioning.
An Enhanced Voltage Gain Techniques in Quadratic Boost Converters - A Systematic Review
Authors: Elghabsi Farag , Mohd Rodhi Bin Sahid  , Razman Bin Ayop  , AHMED ALANSSARI
Published: September 2024

High voltage gain non-isolated boost DC-DC converters are widely employed in applications such as hybrid electric vehicles, aircraft power supplies, photovoltaic (PV) systems and fuel cells (FC) applications. The use of conventional boost converters in high-gain applications is affected by their practical limitation on their voltage gain. Several boost converter topologies based on different voltage lift techniques have been studied and reported; them is quadratic boost converter (QBC). These converters have recently emerged as an interesting topology because of the quadratic nature of their voltage gain, simple among structure and simple control scheme. Recently modified topologies of QBC employing different voltage lift techniques aimed at further enhancing their performance are reported. This paper is aimed at presenting a review on the advances in quadratic boost converters topologies. In this article, QBC are categorized into five groups: magnetically coupled based on coupled-inductor (CI), switch-inductor (SI), switch-inductor switch-capacitor (SC-SI), switch-capacitor (SC), and soft-switching QBC. Furthermore, the paper makes a comprehensive comparison of various QBC in terms of voltage conversion ratio, total component count, input current ripples and voltage stress across switching devices.
The Relationship Between Motivation, Job Satisfaction and Psychological Well-Being among Special Needs Teachers in Johor
Authors: Mohamad Ashari Zakiah , A/P Velloo Pavitra
Published: September 2024

Education is a process and opportunity for students to learn and reap new knowledge. Having an adequate amount of education can help a young student to achieve their ambitions, get a successful career and have high social status. However, special needs education has broader scope, and it does not only focus on taking care of the physical disabilities of the children. It also includes focusing on the children’s academic learning, development from dependence to independent stage and also better social interaction skills throughout their life. All special need teachers deserve to feel comfortable, satisfied and happy with their job. There are many factors that can contribute to job satisfaction, psychological well-being and motivation. Five objectives were created to identify the relationship between motivation, psychological well-being and job satisfaction. Descriptive Statistic had been used to identify the level of each variable for the special needs teacher in Johor while Inferential Statistic like Wilcoxon and Kruskal-Wallis H had been applied to determine which motivation factor (extrinsic-intrinsic) influence special needs teachers the most and is there relationship between all three variables. Finally, it is found that the level of motivation, psychological well-being and job satisfaction is high among the special needs teachers. Also, extrinsic factor is given more importance than intrinsic factor and lastly, it is proven that there is no significant difference in all three variables among special needs teachers
Communication Skills Assessments and Rubrics In The Higher Education: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Suhairom Nornazira , Saipudin Nurul Ain , Abu Bakar Zainudin , Ibrahim Halijah , Talib Rohaya , Haladin Nur’ain Balqis
Published: September 2024

Effective communication skills are crucial in the higher education system. Consequently, there is a growing concern about how higher education institutions can better equip students with the communication skills required for success in both academic and professional settings. The assessment of communication skills, especially in higher education, is complex and can have a substantial impact on students' academic achievements, preparedness for their careers, and overall professional growth. Due to this disparities and assessment challenges, this meta-analysis sought to answer the following research questions: (a) What are the assessments employed for communication skills in multi-discipline studies in higher education? (b) What are the “key findings” contributing to the issues of communication skills assessment in higher education? In this article, a meta-analysis was conducted to determine the types of communication skill assessments and other key findings concerning the assessment issues in this area. Sources were identified using Scopus, Web of Science, Wiley Online Library, Taylor & Francis Online and Springerlink, and, after inclusion criteria were applied, 21 samples of articles were included in the meta-analysis. The findings demonstrate the existence of issues from the aspects of audience, mode, and purpose of the assessments, which mainly are: (1) impact of language proficiency and ICT competency; (2) communication skills approach to non-scientific audience; (3) blended assessment and feedback communication; (4) use of explicit and direct teaching assessment; (5) critical thinking and opportunity for justifying scientific ideas; and (6) benefit of early and continuous communication tasks. The review finds an extensive gap on the communication skills assessment related to higher-order thinking and problem-solving abilities in junior students. This meta-analysis may be of great interest to university policymakers, language lecturers, and academic lecturers from other disciplines who are searching for the best assessments strategies to measure students' communication skills.
The Impact of HURIER Model on Students’ Listening Skills in Primary English Classrooms
Authors: Mat Zaid Zuliyana , Mohd Zaid Norasykin , Yaacob Fatimah Sarah
Published: September 2024

This study aims to assess students' listening skills and gauge their perceptions using the HURIER Model of Listening. The study involved primary school students using purposive sampling, utilizing an experimental research design. Data collection included pre-tests, post-tests and questionnaires. Quantitative data analysis using SPSS version 26 produced descriptive statistical data such as inference, percentage, and mean value. The study found satisfactory effectiveness in students' listening skills based on the HURIER Model, highlighting its suitability for primary school teaching. The components of the model positively impacted students, suggesting its potential for broader application. In conclusion, this study contributes to the understanding of effective listening skills using the HURIER Model, offering insights for educators and researchers to enhance teaching and learning practices.