bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial-temporal characteristics and driving factors of carbon emissions from the construction industry in the Belt and Road region of China
Authors: Yin Xiuqin , Lin Ke
Published: June 2024

To promote sustainable economic development in the Belt and Road region of China, reducing carbon emissions is essential. The construction industry is a major contributor to carbon emissions in China. Therefore, studying the dynamic evolution of carbon emissions from the construction industry in this region and its driving factors is of great significance for effectively controlling emissions and achieving China’s carbon peak and carbon neutrality targets. This paper first employs the Slope model, Moran’s I index, and standard deviation ellipse to reveal the spatial-temporal characteristics of carbon emissions from the construction industry, and then applies the geographical detector model to identify the main driving factors of carbon emissions. The results indicate that: (1) From 2006 to 2021, the total carbon emissions showed a fluctuating growth trend, and there were significant differences in emissions among different regions. (2) Carbon emissions in most provinces exhibited a moderate growth trend, and there was significant spatial correlation and aggregation of inter-provincial emissions. Regional carbon emissions from 2006 to 2021 showed a spatial distribution pattern from northeast to southwest, with a weakening trend, and the center of gravity mainly distributed in the east of the region. (3) Labor input, urbanization rate, total output value of the construction industry, degree of opening up, and energy intensity are the main factors influencing the spatial heterogeneity of carbon emissions from the construction industry, and the majority of the interaction types between factors were bivariate enhancement. This study aims to provide theoretical support for policymakers to formulate appropriate policies for building energy conservation and emission reduction.
Challenges of the new Fiocruz Biodiversity and Health Biobank for preparedness and response to emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases
Authors: da Silva Manuela , Stefanoff Claudio Gustavo , Eneas Paula Cristina Rezende , Bôas Paulo de Carvalho Villas , Nascimento Carlos Roberto Sobrinho do
Published: June 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), a Brazilian federal research institution supported by the Brazilian Health Ministry, established a biobank. This biobank began by preserving the SARS-CoV-2 virus and human biological material related to COVID-19. This innovative initiative combined human and biodiversity materials within a single infrastructure. Designed for supporting research, development, and innovation in healthcare and preparedness and response to emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, the biobank’s focus has since expanded to include various biological materials, leading to its renaming as the Biodiversity and Health Biobank - Fiocruz-BBS (Portuguese: Biobanco da Biodiversidade e Saúde da Fiocruz – BBS-Fiocruz). This paper outlines the challenges of creating and maintaining an adequate infrastructure in a developing country for promoting and supporting scientific research and biotechnological innovation activities in health through processes of depositing, characterizing, preserving, and supplying human and biodiversity biological materials, alongside associated data, while complying with prevailing legal and ethical rules. These processes adhere to stringent quality, biosafety, and biosecurity standards set forth in ISO 20387:2018. Additionally, the challenges of ensuring the Biobank’s long-term sustainability is discussed. This involves a) establishing benchmarks and best practices, b) developing a comprehensive business plan, c) forging partnerships, d) diversifying funding sources, e) ensuring ethical and legal compliance, f) implementing rigorous quality control procedures, and g) investing in human resources and infrastructure. The insights shared in this paper will benefit other biobanks engaged in services related to tropical infectious diseases.
Challenge for multifaceted data acquisition around active volcanoes using uncrewed surface vessel
Authors: Tada Noriko , Nagano Akira , Tanaka Satoru , Ichihara Hiroshi , Suetsugu Daisuke , Matsuoka Daisuke , Ito Makoto , Kuwatani Tatsu , Honda Makio C.
Published: June 2024

Monitoring of volcanic eruptions, the atmosphere, and the ocean, along with their scientific understanding, can be achieved through multifaceted observations that include camera images, topographic deformations, elastic waves, geology, and the chemical constituents and temperatures of air and water. However, regions of increased volcanic activity and/or shallow waters are difficult to access by crewed ship due to danger or grounding risk. To overcome these difficulties, we used an uncrewed surface vessel (USV), Bluebottle, to operate multiple observation around oceanic volcanoes in the Bonin Island arc in May 2023. Even under adverse sea conditions, the USV successfully reached a remote observation site, Nishinoshima volcano, which is about 130 km away from Chichijima Island where the USV started out from. The USV conducted five days of observations at shallower than 500 m water depth around Nishinoshima Island, the first time after violent eruptions of Nishinoshima in June 2020. The USV is equipped with various sensors and data collection technologies, including a single-beam echosounder, oceanographic and meteorological sensors, an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler, and a time-lapse camera. These tools have provided a multi-dimensional view of the underwater landscape and marine conditions near the volcano for the first time in the world. We obtained new bathymetric data, sub-bottom images, and measurements of temperature, salinity, and pH. This study leverages advanced technologies and innovative methodologies to enhance our understanding of marine and geological phenomena.
Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in non-HIV patients: need for a more extended prophylaxis
Authors: Sauvat Léo , Denis Laure , Nourrisson Céline , Poirier Philippe , Ruivard Marc , Le Guenno Guillaume
Published: June 2024

Background

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) has a significant mortality rate for non-HIV immunocompromised patients. Prevention is primarily based on combined trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) but guidelines on pneumocystosis prophylaxis are scattered and not consensual.

Objectives

This study aims to describe PCP in non-HIV patients and to review case by case the prior indication of prophylaxis according to specific guidelines.

We included patients with confirmed diagnosis of PCP admitted to one university hospital from 2007 to 2020. Prior indication for pneumocystis prophylaxis was assessed according to the specific guidelines for the underlying pathology or treatment.

Results

Of 150 patients with a medical diagnosis of PCP, 78 were included. Four groups of underlying pathologies were identified: hematological pathologies (42%), autoimmune diseases (27%), organ transplantation (17%), and other pathologies at risk of PCP (14%). A small subgroup of 14 patients (18%) had received a prior prescription of pneumocystis prophylaxis but none at the time of the episode. Transfer to intensive care was necessary for 33 (42%) patients, and the mortality rate at 3 months was 20%. According to international disease society guidelines, 52 patients (59%) should have been on prophylaxis at the time of the pneumocystis episode. Lowest compliance with guidelines was observed in the hematological disease group for 24 patients (72%) without prescription of indicated prophylaxis.

Conclusion

Infectious disease specialists should draw up specific prophylactic guidelines against pneumocystis to promote a better prevention of the disease and include additional criteria in their recommendations according to individual characteristics to prevent fatal cases.
Acquired reactive perforating collagenosis triggered by trauma with eosinophilia: a case report and literature review
Authors: Liu Jie , Zhao Peng , Zhang Xinzhong , Gao Jie , Han Haozhi , Qin Junxia
Published: June 2024

Acquired reactive perforating collagenosis (ARPC) is a rare dermatological disorder condition defined by the perforation of altered collagen fibers through the epidermis. The presence of underlying conditions such as diabetes or renal disease is helpful in the ARPC diagnosis. Although skin rashes related to ARPC have been reported, the exact causative factors and mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we present a unique case of ARPC triggered by trauma in a 67-year-old male without concurrent systemic alterations. The diagnosis of ARPC with eosinophilia was made following comprehensive diagnostic testing, including clinical presentation, histological results, and blood tests, ruling out other possible diseases. Intriguingly, the histopathological examination revealed collagen penetration into the epidermis at different tissue sections. In addition, we reviewed existing literature on ARPC, which documented the causation. To help confirm the diagnosis, clinicians have to pay attention to traumatic triggers for ARPC and its rare manifestation with eosinophilia.
The ice phenology as a predictor of Planktothrix rubescens bloom in vegetation season in temperate lakes
Authors: Lenard Tomasz , Ejankowski Wojciech
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Global warming affects air and water temperatures, which impacts the phenology of lakes and aquatic ecosystems. These changes are most noticeable during winter, when the potentially toxic Planktothrix rubescens forms its inoculum for annual blooms. Mostly, research has been conducted on alpine lakes, where blooms have persisted for decades, while a few have focused on temperate lakes. Our study aimed to determine the factors influencing the dynamics of the development of P. rubescens in temperate lakes where blooms occasionally occur, with a particular emphasis on the role of ice phenology.

Methods

We investigated the vertical distribution of P. rubescens in an annual cycle in three temperate lakes. Samples were collected monthly in the winter and biweekly during the vegetative seasons. Overall, 434 samples were collected and analyzed according to biological and chemical parameters. Physical parameters were measured in situ.

Results

The vegetation seasons in temperate lakes showed a similar development pattern in the P. rubescens population as that in alpine lakes. Our results also show the influence of physical and chemical factors on the vertical distribution of this cyanobacterium. These results revealed the significant impact of P. rubescens filaments on phytoplankton biodiversity and biomass. Our data show the role of ice phenology in the establishment of the winter inoculum of P. rubescens and its further mass development until its disappearance in autumn.

Conclusion

A climate-zone-independent pattern of P. rubescens blooms was observed during the vegetation periods. The population of P. rubescens was more influenced by physical factors than by the availability of dissolved nutrients in the water. Despite the same etiology, global warming has been shown to cause different responses in aquatic ecosystems, which affect the different nature of P. rubescens appearances. We associated blooms in temperate lakes, in contrast to alpine lakes, mainly with the presence of ice cover during severe winters, when the species establishes its inoculum. Hence, blooms in temperate lakes occur at different time intervals. Therefore, the dynamics of periodic blooms of P. rubescens in temperate lakes provide novel knowledge to the case study and a counterpoint to permanent blooms found in deep alpine lakes.
Additional effect of erenumab for patients with chronic migraine treated with onabotulinumtoxin A—real-world data from a preliminary cohort study
Authors: Koelsche Tristan , Nikolov Petyo , Koska Valeria , Ingwersen Jens , Jansen Robin , Arat Ercan , Meuth Sven G. , Albrecht Philipp , Lee John-Ih
Published: June 2024

Background

This preliminary retrospective cohort study investigates the potential additive prophylactic effect of erenumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody that blocks the calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor, in combination with ongoing onabotulinumtoxin A (onaBoNT-A) treatment in patients suffering from chronic migraine.

Methods

The study included 218 patients and investigated the effects of adding erenumab to the existing treatment regimen. The primary outcome was the MIDAS (Migraine Disability Assessment) score assessed 3 months after the introduction of erenumab.

Results

The results indicated a significant improvement of the MIDAS score, suggesting a reduction in migraine-related disability following the addition of erenumab to onaBoNT-A. In the inter group comparison, dual therapy showed a significantly greater reduction of the MIDAS when compared to a switch from onaBoNT-A to erenumab monotherapy, but not compared to initiation of onaBoNT-A monotherapy. It is hypothesized that the observed additive effects are due to the independent modes of action of erenumab and onabotulinumtoxin A.

Conclusion

This study suggests that the combination of erenumab with onaBoNT-A may offer an improved approach for the treatment of chronic migraine in selected patients. However, the results highlight the need for prospective, controlled studies to validate these findings and determine the optimal combination of treatments tailored to the individual patient.
Dominance of attentional focus: a comparative study on its impact on standing postural control in healthy younger and older adults
Authors: Sawai Shun , Murata Shin , Sakano Yuya , Fujikawa Shoya , Yamamoto Ryosuke , Shizuka Yusuke , Nakano Hideki
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Attentional focus is a phenomenon in which shifting the focus of attention alters performance of standing postural control. It can be categorized as internal focus (IF), which directs attention to the body parts, or external focus (EF), which directs attention to the external environment. Although attentional focus that improves standing postural control in younger people exhibits individual dominance, the dominance of attentional focus in standing postural control in older adults remains ambiguous. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the dominance of attentional focus in standing postural control between healthy younger and older adults, a crucial step for understanding the aging process.

Methods

The participants performed a standing postural control task under the IF and EF conditions. Based on the condition during which they exhibited superior performance, the participants were divided into two groups: IF-dominant and EF-dominant. The standing postural control performance in each group under the IF and EF conditions was subsequently compared.

Results

The results showed that the participants, encompassing both younger and older adults, were divided into the IF-dominant and EF-dominant groups, confirming the dominance of attentional focus. The performance under the EF condition in older adults was also influenced by the dominance of attentional focus.

Conclusion

These results highlight the potential importance of intervention methods based on the dominance of attentional focus, providing valuable insights into future research and clinical practice.
A lightweight data-driven spiking neuronal network model of Drosophila olfactory nervous system with dedicated hardware support
Authors: Nanami Takuya , Yamada Daichi , Someya Makoto , Hige Toshihide , Kazama Hokto , Kohno Takashi
Published: June 2024

Data-driven spiking neuronal network (SNN) models enable in-silico analysis of the nervous system at the cellular and synaptic level. Therefore, they are a key tool for elucidating the information processing principles of the brain. While extensive research has focused on developing data-driven SNN models for mammalian brains, their complexity poses challenges in achieving precision. Network topology often relies on statistical inference, and the functions of specific brain regions and supporting neuronal activities remain unclear. Additionally, these models demand huge computing facilities and their simulation speed is considerably slower than real-time. Here, we propose a lightweight data-driven SNN model that strikes a balance between simplicity and reproducibility. The model is built using a qualitative modeling approach that can reproduce key dynamics of neuronal activity. We target the Drosophila olfactory nervous system, extracting its network topology from connectome data. The model was successfully implemented on a small entry-level field-programmable gate array and simulated the activity of a network in real-time. In addition, the model reproduced olfactory associative learning, the primary function of the olfactory system, and characteristic spiking activities of different neuron types. In sum, this paper propose a method for building data-driven SNN models from biological data. Our approach reproduces the function and neuronal activities of the nervous system and is lightweight, acceleratable with dedicated hardware, making it scalable to large-scale networks. Therefore, our approach is expected to play an important role in elucidating the brain's information processing at the cellular and synaptic level through an analysis-by-construction approach. In addition, it may be applicable to edge artificial intelligence systems in the future.
Pharmacological HDAC3 inhibition alters memory updating in young and old male mice
Authors: Smies Chad W. , Bellfy Lauren , Wright Destiny S. , Bennetts Sofia G. , Urban Mark W. , Brunswick Chad A. , Shu Guanhua , Kwapis Janine L.
Published: June 2024

Long-term memories are not stored in a stable state but must be flexible and dynamic to maintain relevance in response to new information. Existing memories are thought to be updated through the process of reconsolidation, in which memory retrieval initiates destabilization and updating to incorporate new information. Memory updating is impaired in old age, yet little is known about the mechanisms that go awry. One potential mechanism is the repressive histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3), which is a powerful negative regulator of memory formation that contributes to age-related impairments in memory formation. Here, we tested whether HDAC3 also contributes to age-related impairments in memory updating using the Objects in Updated Locations (OUL) paradigm. We show that blocking HDAC3 immediately after updating with the pharmacological inhibitor RGFP966 ameliorated age-related impairments in memory updating in 18-m.o. male mice. Surprisingly, we found that post-update HDAC3 inhibition in young (3-m.o.) male mice had no effect on memory updating but instead impaired memory for the original information, suggesting that the original and updated information may compete for expression at test and HDAC3 helps regulate which information is expressed. To test this idea, we next assessed whether HDAC3 inhibition would improve memory updating in young male mice given a weak, subthreshold update. Consistent with our hypothesis, we found that HDAC3 blockade strengthened the subthreshold update without impairing memory for the original information, enabling balanced expression of the original and updated information. Together, this research suggests that HDAC3 may contribute to age-related impairments in memory updating and may regulate the strength of a memory update in young mice, shifting the balance between the original and updated information at test.
Intermittent protein restriction before but not after the onset of diabetic kidney disease attenuates disease progression in mice
Authors: Peng Xiaoyue , Liu Min , Wu Yijie , Fan Wenying , Hou Yi , Kong Yan , Liu Yajin , Zhang Xuejiao , Shan Chunyan , Sun Haipeng , Yang Yanhui
Published: June 2024

Background

High dietary protein intake exacerbates proteinuria in individuals with diabetic kidney disease (DKD). However, studies on the impacts of low protein diet (LPD) on DKD have yielded conflicting results. Furthermore, patient compliance to continuous protein restriction is challenging.

Objective

The current study aims to investigate the effects of intermittent protein restriction (IPR) on disease progression of DKD.

Methods

Diabetic KK-Ay mice were used in this study. For the IPR treatment, three consecutive days of LPD were followed by four consecutive days of normal protein diet (NPD) within each week. For early intervention, mice received IPR before DKD onset. For late intervention, mice received IPR after DKD onset. In both experiments, age-matched mice fed continuous NPD served as the control group. Kidney morphology, structure and function of mice in different groups were examined.

Results

Intermittent protein restriction before DKD onset ameliorated pathological changes in kidney, including nephromegaly, glomerular hyperfiltration, tubular injuries and proteinuria, without improving glycemic control. Meanwhile, IPR initiated after DKD onset showed no renoprotective effects despite improved glucose homeostasis.

Conclusion

Intermittent protein restriction before rather than after DKD onset protects kidneys, and the impacts of IPR on the kidneys are independent of glycemic control. IPR shows promise as an effective strategy for managing DKD and improving patient compliance.
Ultra-processed foods consumption and health-related outcomes: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Aramburu Adolfo , Alvarado-Gamarra Giancarlo , Cornejo Rubelio , Curi-Quinto Katherine , Díaz-Parra Carmen del Pilar , Rojas-Limache Gabriela , Lanata Claudio F.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The increase in ultra-processed foods (UPFs) intake has raised concerns about its impact on public health. Prospective observational studies have reported significant associations between higher intake of UPFs and adverse health outcomes. The aim of this study is to determine whether these associations could be confirmed in randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods

We conducted a systematic review to analyze the evidence on the effects of UPFs intake on health. A systematic search was conducted in Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, LILACS, and CENTRAL up to April 22, 2024. RCTs in English, Spanish, and Portuguese evaluating the health effects of interventions to modify UPFs intake were included. The certainty of evidence was determined using the GRADE methodology.

Results

Three educational intervention studies and one controlled feeding trial were included, evaluating the effect of reducing the consumption of UPFs (455 participants, median follow-up, 12 weeks). No significant effects were observed in 30 out of the 42 outcomes evaluated. The controlled feeding trial in adults with stable weight showed a reduction in energy intake, carbohydrates, and fat (low certainty of evidence), as well as in body weight, total cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol (moderate certainty of evidence). In the educational intervention studies, a reduction in body weight and waist circumference was observed (low certainty of evidence) in women with obesity, as well as improvement in some dimensions of quality of life (very low certainty of evidence). No significant changes were observed in children and adolescents with obesity, while in overweight pregnant women, the consumption of UPFs was not reduced, so the observed benefits could be attributed to other components of the intervention.

Conclusion

Interventions aimed at reducing the consumption of UPFs showed benefits on some anthropometric and dietary intake outcomes, although significant effects were not observed for most of the evaluated outcomes. The limited number and significant methodological limitations of the studies prevent definitive conclusions. Further well-designed and conducted RCTs are needed to understand the effects of UPF consumption on health.

Systematic review registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023469984
Primary cervical malignant melanoma that was successfully treated with pembrolizumab: a case report and literature review
Authors: Zhang Mengpei , Yin Rutie , Song Liang , Zhong Lan , Wang Ruiyu
Published: June 2024

Primary malignant melanoma (MM) arising from the cervix is an exceedingly rare occurrence, and patients diagnosed with this condition often face a dismal clinical prognosis. Here, we present a case study of a postmenopausal woman presenting with vaginal bleeding and a conspicuous 5-centimeter black mass on the cervix. Based on the staging criteria established by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, she was diagnosed with stage IIB primary cervical MM. The patient underwent neoadjuvant therapy prior to a radical hysterectomy and a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Subsequently, she completed 18 cycles of pembrolizumab therapy, achieving clinical complete remission. Notably, at the 31-month follow-up, there were no signs of recurrence. This successful treatment outcome serves as a valuable clinical reference for the management of primary cervical MM.
An update of the molecular mechanisms underlying anthracycline induced cardiotoxicity
Authors: Xie Sicong , Sun Yuwei , Zhao Xuan , Xiao Yiqun , Zhou Fei , Lin Liang , Wang Wei , Lin Bin , Wang Zun , Fang Zixuan , Wang Lei , Zhang Yang
Published: June 2024

Anthracycline drugs mainly include doxorubicin, epirubicin, pirarubicin, and aclamycin, which are widely used to treat a variety of malignant tumors, such as breast cancer, gastrointestinal tumors, lymphoma, etc. With the accumulation of anthracycline drugs in the body, they can induce serious heart damage, limiting their clinical application. The mechanism by which anthracycline drugs cause cardiotoxicity is not yet clear. This review provides an overview of the different types of cardiac damage induced by anthracycline-class drugs and delves into the molecular mechanisms behind these injuries. Cardiac damage primarily involves alterations in myocardial cell function and pathological cell death, encompassing mitochondrial dysfunction, topoisomerase inhibition, disruptions in iron ion metabolism, myofibril degradation, and oxidative stress. Mechanisms of uptake and transport in anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity are emphasized, as well as the role and breakthroughs of iPSC in cardiotoxicity studies. Selected novel cardioprotective therapies and mechanisms are updated. Mechanisms and protective strategies associated with anthracycline cardiotoxicity in animal experiments are examined, and the definition of drug damage in humans and animal models is discussed. Understanding these molecular mechanisms is of paramount importance in mitigating anthracycline-induced cardiac toxicity and guiding the development of safer approaches in cancer treatment.
Integrating network pharmacology and experimental verification to reveal the anti-inflammatory ingredients and molecular mechanism of pycnogenol
Authors: Liu Hongyu , Shi Jie , Liu Fei , Zhang Litao
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Pycnogenol (PYC), a standardized extract from French maritime pine, has traditionally been used to treat inflammation. However, its primary active components and their mechanisms of action have not yet been determined.

Methods: This study employed UPLC-MS/MS (Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry) and network pharmacology to identify the potential active components of PYC and elucidate their anti-inflammatory mechanisms by cell experiments.

Results: 768 PYC compounds were identified and 19 anti-inflammatory compounds were screened with 85 target proteins directly involved in the inflammation. PPI (protein-protein interaction) analysis identified IL6, TNF, MMP9, IL1B, AKT1, IFNG, CXCL8, NFKB1, CCL2, IL10, and PTGS2 as core targets. KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) enrichment analysis suggested that the compound in PYC might exert anti-inflammatory effects through the IL17 and TNF signal pathways. Cell experiments determined that PYC treatment can reduce the expression of IL6 and IL1β to relieve inflammation in LPS (lipopolysaccharide)-induced BV2 cells.

Conclusion: PYC could affect inflammation via multi-components, -targets, and -mechanisms.
Interactions between developmental phenology, carbon movement, and storage constrain demography in the understory clonal herb Podophyllum peltatum L.
Authors: Watson Maxine A. , Vuorisalo Timo
Published: June 2024

Little is known about how carbon integration and storage dynamics affect and are affected by demography in field populations. We sought to elucidate this link by examining dynamic patterns of carbon integration relative to the timing of demographically significant developmental decisions regarding shoot type determination in mayapple, Podophyllum peltatum, a clonal plant with large and persistent rhizomes. Individual rhizome systems growing in natural populations were fed 14CO2 either in late-April, early-May, or mid-June, then harvested at intervals throughout the current season and into the next. When distribution of label was examined we found that carbon fixed at different times in the growing season is used differently: April-fixed assimilate remained in the labeled shoot or was moved into the old rhizome, May-fixed assimilate was found predominantly in the old rhizome, while early-June fixed assimilate moved into the old rhizome and the extending new ramet. Movement of assimilate into the old rhizome appeared to have precedence over formation of additional new ramets. Despite significant within season changes in location of dominant sinks within rhizome systems, there was little redistribution of labeled assimilate: early fixed assimilate was not used to fuel later within season growth, however, assimilate was redistributed between seasons. Vegetative and sexual systems differed in the distribution only of April-fixed assimilate. This was observed even though early labeling occurred prior to anthesis. Sexual systems retained a greater proportion of assimilate in the stem than did vegetative ones, which exported more to the old rhizome. 14C-distribution patterns did not vary between systems differing in future demographic status suggesting that the developmental decision regarding shoot type is based on resources acquired in prior years. We explore the hypothesis that preformation and storage are functionally linked traits that permit plants to coordinate the developmental determination of structures differing in cost and demographic function with known resource status. We conclude that demography influences and is influenced by integrative physiology and that physiological restrictions on within season redistribution of assimilates constrain plants’ capacities to respond to short-term environmental variation. Such constraints may affect plants’ abilities to respond to rapid environmental change in the Anthropocene.
Transcriptome analysis revealed the role of moderate exogenous methyl jasmonate treatments in enhancing the metabolic pathway of L-borneol in the Blumea balsamifera
Authors: Guan Lingliang , Lin Na , Wan Lingyun , Yu Fulai , Chen Xiaolu , Xie Xiaoli , Yuan Chao , Soaud Salma A. , Abd Elhamid Mohamed A. , Heakel Rania M. Y. , Wang Linghui , El-Sappah Ahmed H.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Blumea balsamifera L. (Ainaxiang) DC. is a perennial herb of the compositae family. It is also the primary source of natural borneol. Endo-borneol, the principal medical active element in B. balsamifera, is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic; enhances medicine absorption; refreshes; and is used as a spice and in cosmetic. Industrialization of B. balsamifera is limited by its low L-borneol concentration. Thus, understanding the accumulation pattern of the secondary metabolite endo-borneol and its synthesis process in secondary metabolism is critical for increasing B. balsamifera active ingredient content and cultivation efficiency.

Methods

In this work, B. balsamifera was treated with varying concentrations (1.00 and 10.00 mmol/L) of methyl jasmonate (MeJA) as an exogenous foliar activator. The physiological parameters and L-borneol concentration were then assessed. Transcriptome sequencing of B. balsamifera-induced leaves was used to identify key genes for monoterpene synthesis.

Results

The treatment effect of 1 mmol/L MeJA was the best, and the leaves of all three leaf positions accumulated the highest L-borneol after 120 h, correspondingly 3.043 mg·g−1 FW, 3.346 mg·g−1 FW, and 2.044 mg·g−1 FW, with significant differences from the control. The main assembly produced 509,285 transcripts with min and max lengths of 201 and 23,172, respectively. DEG analysis employing volcano blots revealed 593, 224, 612, 2,405, 1,353, and 921 upregulated genes and 4, 123, 573, 1,745, 766, and 763 downregulated genes in the treatments D1_1vsCK, D1_10vsCK, D2_1vsCK, D2_10vsCK, D5_1vsCK, and D5_10vsCK. Interestingly, when exposed to MeJA treatments, the MEP pathway’s unigenes express themselves more than those of the MVA route. Finally, when treated with 1 mmol/L, the genes DXR, DXS, and GPS showed increased expression over time. At the same time, a 10 mmol/L therapy resulted in elevated levels of ispH and GGPS.

Discussion

Our preliminary research indicates that exogenous phytohormones can raise the level of L borneol in B. balsamifera (L.) DC when given in the appropriate amounts. The most significant discovery made while analyzing the effects of different hormones and concentrations on B. balsamifera (L.) DC was the effect of 1 mmol/L MeJA treatment.
The narcissism of minor resemblances: searching for allies at times of threat
Authors: Drožđek Boris
Published: June 2024

Humans must identify others as enemies or allies to develop, protect, maintain, and refine their sense of self. This is a part of their normal psychological development. These phenomena operate on individual and large group levels and are pronounced under threat. In peril, they help create psychological boundaries between conflicting parties and bonds between allies. These boundaries and bonds are invested with strong emotions. The narcissism of minor differences concept is involved in identifying and delineating enemies at times of perceived danger. This article introduces the concept of the narcissism of minor resemblances. This concept is discussed from the psychodynamic perspective and illustrated with examples of socio-political developments from modern history. The narcissism of minor resemblances concept may help us understand the underlying dynamics of bonding with allies and identifying with others when undergoing threat and hardship. This concept connects the public arena of political action with individual psychological development. Awareness of this phenomenon can help mitigate the negative aspects of rigid enemy-ally distinctions and promote cooperation and peace. It may also help individuals impacted by psychological trauma to make meaning of psychological and societal processes experienced and contribute to their healing.
They approve but they don’t act: promoting sustainable minority behavior with (conflicting) social norm appeals
Authors: Schorn Anna , Wirth Werner
Published: June 2024

Background

Social norm appeals are effective in promoting sustainable majority behavior but could backfire when the target behavior is only performed by a minority of people. However, emphasizing that an increasing number of people have started engaging in the behavior or that the majority approve the behavior might prevent such negative effects. However, only a few studies have investigated the combination of descriptive minority and injunctive majority social norm appeals, with inconsistent results. Some studies of minority behavior suggest that the characteristics of recipients might determine the inconsistent results regarding the impact of minority social norm appeals and that social norm appeals could have a greater impact on individuals with weaker environment related dispositions.

Method

Two two-wave studies investigated how descriptive minority appeals, injunctive majority appeals, and their combination can be used to motivate sustainable minority behavior and what role environment related dispositions play in this context. In the first part, perceived social norms, environment related dispositions, behavioral intentions, and pre-attitudes were measured. Two weeks later, respondents participated in a 3 (descriptive social norm appeal: static vs. dynamic vs. absent) × 2 (injunctive majority social norm appeal: present vs. absent) between-subjects experiment and watched an explainer video on voluntary carbon offsets that included various social norm appeals.

Results

In both studies, we found that social norm appeals influenced perceived social norms. However, persuasive effects were only observed in the first study, and an injunctive majority appeal increased persuasive outcomes, but there were no differences between the descriptive conditions and no differences in their impact depending on individuals’ environment related dispositions in either study.

Discussion

A single exposure may be insufficient to exert persuasive effects and the change in perceived social norms may first need to be internalized. In online explainer videos, the effects of social norm appeals could be amplified by algorithm-based suggestions and when social norm appeals draw attention to norm-conforming content. However, further research is required on the long-term effects and their possible amplification via social media.
Efficiency of computerized adaptive testing with a cognitively designed item bank
Authors: Luo Hao , Yang Xiangdong
Published: June 2024

An item bank is key to applying computerized adaptive testing (CAT). The traditional approach to developing an item bank requires content experts to design each item individually, which is a time-consuming and costly process. The cognitive design system (CDS) approach offers a solution by automating item generation. However, the CDS approach has a specific way of calibrating or predicting item difficulty that affects the measurement efficiency of CAT. A simulation study was conducted to compare the efficiency of CAT using both calibration and prediction models. The results show that, although the predictive model (linear logistic trait model; LLTM) shows a higher root mean square error (RMSE) than the baseline model (Rasch), it requires only a few additional items to achieve comparable RMSE. Importantly, the number of additional items needed decreases as the explanatory rate of the model increases. These results indicate that the slight reduction in measurement efficiency due to prediction item difficulty is acceptable. Moreover, the use of prediction item difficulty can significantly reduce or even eliminate the need for item pretesting, thereby reducing the costs associated with item calibration.
Using evidence-based applied positive psychology to promote student well-being
Authors: Fält-Weckman Stefania , Fagerlund Åse , Londen Monica , Lagerström Martin
Published: June 2024

There has been a noticeable decline in life satisfaction among adolescents globally in recent years. The present study explored the immediate and long-term effects of a positive psychology intervention course, Study with Strength, on the well-being of students at general upper secondary school in Finland during the pandemic. Based on a partly randomized wait-list control group design, the study included a final sample of 350 students from 10 schools. Self-report measures were used to assess both immediate between-group effects and long-term within-group effects of the intervention on student well-and ill-being. A combination of methods from positive psychology and cognitive therapy were applied, and the course was administered by the participating schools’ own teachers and student-welfare personnel. The findings show that the Study with Strength intervention course enhanced the students’ experiences of positive practices at school, happiness and of positive emotions. However, the effect sizes were small. The intervention did not have any immediate effects on all aspects of well-being, negative emotions, depression, or study-related burnout. The significant, positive changes in students’ well-being in the analysis of long-term effects must be interpreted with caution. The students also reported a positive effect of the intervention both on their personal lives and in their studies. Overall, it appears that the intervention had a small but positive impact, nudging students towards enhanced well-being. The results offer valuable insights into the implementation of positive education on students at general upper secondary school aged 15–19.
Exploring the fear of clinical errors: associations with socio-demographic, professional, burnout, and mental health factors in healthcare workers – A nationwide cross-sectional study
Authors: Boyer Laurent , Wu Albert W. , Fernandes Sara , Tran Bach , Brousse Yann , Nguyen Tham Thi , Yon Dong Keon , Auquier Pascal , Lucas Guillaume , Boussat Bastien , Fond Guillaume
Published: June 2024

Background

The fear of clinical errors among healthcare workers (HCW) is an understudied aspect of patient safety. This study aims to describe this phenomenon among HCW and identify associated socio-demographic, professional, burnout and mental health factors.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide, online, cross-sectional study targeting HCW in France from May to June 2021. Recruitment was through social networks, professional networks, and email invitations. To assess the fear of making clinical errors, HCW were asked: “During your daily activities, how often are you afraid of making a professional error that could jeopardize patient safety?” Responses were collected on a 7-point Likert-type scale. HCW were categorized into “High Fear” for those who reported experiencing fear frequently (“once a week,” “a few times a week,” or “every day”), vs. “Low Fear” for less often. We used multivariate logistic regression to analyze associations between fear of clinical errors and various factors, including sociodemographic, professional, burnout, and mental health. Structural equation modeling was used to explore how this fear fits into a comprehensive theoretical framework.

Results

We recruited a total of 10,325 HCW, of whom 25.9% reported “High Fear” (95% CI: 25.0–26.7%). Multivariate analysis revealed higher odds of “High Fear” among males, younger individuals, and those with less professional experience. High fear was more notable among physicians and nurses, and those working in critical care and surgery, on night shifts or with irregular schedules. Significant associations were found between “High Fear” and burnout, low professional support, major depressive disorder, and sleep disorders.

Conclusions

Fear of clinical errors is associated with factors that also influence patient safety, highlighting the importance of this experience. Incorporating this dimension into patient safety culture assessment could provide valuable insights and could inform ways to proactively enhance patient safety.
Caring and striving: toward a new consumer identity in the process of consumption reduction
Authors: Callmer Åsa , Boström Magnus
Published: June 2024

Adoption of sufficiency-oriented lifestyles is an important part of curbing overconsumption, yet many individuals who try to reduce their consumption volumes experience social difficulties. Combining the perspectives of care and sufficiency-oriented lifestyle changes, this article aims to contribute to the understanding of why such social obstacles occur, how they might be counteracted and in what ways social relations instead may facilitate consumption reduction. Starting from an interview study with 25 Swedish consumption reducers, this article builds on a processual theory of consumer identity and the perspective of care to explore how care and consumption are (re)negotiated in the different stages of reduction. The results highlight the different aspects of care involved in consumption reduction – from motivations for change to negotiations toward a more holistic understanding of care – and show that consumption reduction in many ways is an ongoing process of both caring and striving. By emphasizing how care is renegotiated in a gradual construction of a caring consumer identity, this article discusses the importance of maintaining a sensitivity to the multi-faceted nature of care, acknowledging it both as a source of difficulties and as a key driver for sufficiency-oriented lifestyle changes.
Why is Slow, Deep Breathing Good for Your Health?
Authors: Ramakrishnan Angarai Ganesan , A. S. Anusha
Published: June 2024

The oxygen obtained through breathing is critical for the functioning of the brain and every organ of the body. The body’s breathing and blood circulation systems ensure an adequate supply of oxygen to every cell of the body, and they also help to eliminate the waste products of cellular activity, namely carbon dioxide. The heart is the pump for the circulation system, and the heart rate increases every time we breathe in and decreases when we breathe out. Thus, slow, deep breathing is a good exercise for the heart. Research has indicated that deep breathing can change the activity level of our genes and the speed of cerebrospinal fluid flow in the brain. The nose cleans, moistens, and warms air as it moves to the throat. A gas released by the body inside the nose helps the lungs absorb more oxygen. Thus, for our health, breathing through the nose is better than breathing through the mouth.
Challenging the status quo: gender norms in Croatian juvenile correctional settings
Authors: Matković Elizabeta , Borić Ivana , Ćosić Andrea , Sočo Anamarija
Published: June 2024

Gender norms and issues related to gender are highly relevant when it comes to treatment of juveniles in correctional institutions, especially related to their risky behavior and personal characteristics (such as personality traits, intellectual capability, culture, ethnicity etc.). Furthermore, many juveniles in correctional institutions are exposed to violence and are also perpetrators of violent criminal acts. This paper will give an overview of national policies related to gender-sensitive treatment in Croatia as a background to research aimed to describe the reflection of gender issues and gender norms in practical work with juveniles in Croatian correctional institutions. The research is based on qualitative approach and includes focus groups with youth workers from various organizations who implemented programs for youth in correctional institutions. Preliminary results show that gender and gender norms are not specifically targeted in treatment programs within the institutions. The initiative to implement gender issues mainly comes from organizations from the civil sector through different workshops. Juveniles express relatively rigid gender norms that are supported by rigid organization of correctional institutions especially for males. This research shows the importance of clearer focus to gender-sensitive programing and gender sensitive treatment programs that will strongly be integrated in everyday practice of correctional institutions. The precondition for this is largely connected to deconstructing stereotypes about gender and gender norms both for youth and professionals working with them.