bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A taste of youth: Seasonal changes in the diet of immature white sharks in eastern Australia
Authors: Lipscombe Rebecca S. , Meyer Lauren , Butcherine Peter , Morris Stephen , Huveneers Charlie , Scott Anna , Butcher Paul A.
Published: July 2024

White sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) play a crucial ecological role, shaping ecosystems through direct predation and risk effects. On the east coast of Australia, immature white sharks are broadly distributed, inhabiting a wide range of habitats and ecosystems from temperate Tasmania to tropical North Queensland. Using stable isotopes and fatty acids of muscle and plasma, we examined the diet and habitat use of 136 immature white sharks (152–388 cm total length) captured on SMART drumlines on the East Australian coast. This facilitated the temporal assessment of white shark trophic ecology from a few weeks to approximately a year. Biochemistry of muscle samples showed that white sharks predominantly feed on low trophic level prey from coastal environments. A seasonal shift in diet was evident, with the increasing proportions of essential fatty acids in muscle tissues during spring and summer suggesting a greater consumption of high-nutrition preys during those months compared to autumn and winter. By combining stable isotope and fatty acid analysis, we gain a comprehensive understanding of immature white shark diet in eastern Australia. Our results confirm that white sharks are generalist predators that exhibit seasonal shifts in their diet. Their high use of coastal habitats reinforces the importance of these areas for foraging, which is crucial for growth and development during this critical life stage.
Distribution of species in deep-sea biogeographic provinces and molecular phylogeny for the superfamily Neotanaoidea (Peracarida; Tanaidacea) indicate high levels of connectivity
Authors: Palacios Theil Emma , Błażewicz Magdalena
Published: July 2024

Here we analyze available recorded occurrences for species of Neotanaoidea, a deep-sea peracarid superfamily, in the frame of biogeographic bathyal, abyssal, and hadal provinces. In addition, we provide the first phylogeny based on molecular data for this group. Despite the existence of large knowledge gaps, the observed patterns reveal levels of connectivity across biogeographic provinces, oceans, and depths higher than initially expected for a superfamily consisting of relatively small deep-sea benthic invertebrates without a pelagic larval stage, and therefore hypothetically low mobility capabilities. We have detected neotanaid species with closely related populations across the Pacific Ocean or able to overpass a geographical barrier as significant as the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Additionally, the molecular analyses expose the need for a taxonomic review of the four genera within Neotanaoidea. A search for better suited morphological and possibly ecological characters as diagnostic traits for genera and species should be undertaken, aiming at a better definition of the existing taxa and the description of new ones.
Chromoblastomycosis caused by Alternaria infectoria, concurrent with myiasis, in a recipient of a kidney transplant: a compelling case report
Authors: Mahmoudi Hamidreza , Ramezanalipour Zahra , Khansari Mahmoud , Meijer Eelco F. J. , Mahmoudi Shahram , Spruijtenburg Bram , Rahimi Foroushani Abbas , Gramishoar Mohsen , Kamali Sarvestani Hasti
Published: July 2024

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) pose a significant threat to the health of millions of people worldwide, particularly in impoverished populations in tropical and subtropical regions. The World Health Organization (WHO) considers certain fungal infections, such as chromoblastomycosis, as NTDs. Chromoblastomycosis is a chronic fungal infection affecting the skin and subcutaneous tissue, primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions of Latin America, Africa, and Asia. This case report presents a 46-year-old female patient with chromoblastomycosis who had a history of renal transplantation and was receiving immunosuppressive therapy. The patient exhibited dark, verrucous, and ulcerative lesions on the legs, and the diagnosis was confirmed through the microscopic examination of skin scrapings by observing medlar bodies. Two sequential fungal tissue cultures and ITS sequencing verified the presence of Alternaria infectoria, not formerly described in chromoblastomycosis. Moreover, observation of fly larvae in the lesions verified the diagnosis of myiasis. Treatment with voriconazole and terbinafine resulted in complete resolution of the lesions after 5 months. This case emphasizes the importance of considering chromoblastomycosis in individuals with occupational exposure in tropical areas, as well as the challenges associated with its diagnosis, coinfections, and treatment.
Do extracellular vesicles have specific target cells?; Extracellular vesicle mediated embryo maternal communication
Authors: Dissanayake Keerthie , Godakumara Kasun , Muhandiram Subhashini , Kodithuwakku Suranga , Fazeli Alireza
Published: July 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) serve as messengers for intercellular communication, yet the precise mechanisms by which recipient cells interpret EV messages remain incompletely understood. In this study, we explored how the origin of EVs, their protein cargo, and the recipient cell type influence the cellular response to EVs within an embryo implantation model. We treated two types of EVs to 6 different recipient cell types and expression of zinc finger protein 81 (ZNF81) gene expression in the recipient cells were quantified using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The proteomic contents of the EV cargos were also analyzed. The results showed that downregulation of the ZNF81 gene was a specific cellular response of receptive endometrial epithelial cells to trophoblast derived EVs. Protein cargo analysis revealed that the proteomic profile of EVs depends on their cell of origin and therefore may affect the recipient cell response to EVs. Furthermore, trophoblastic EVs were found to be specifically enriched with transcription factors such as CTNNB1 (catenin beta-1), HDAC2 (histone deacetylase 2), and NOTCH1 (neurogenic locus notch homolog protein 1), which are known regulators of ZNF81 gene expression. The current study provided compelling evidence supporting the existence of EV specificity, where the characteristics of both the EVs and the recipient cell type collectively contribute to regulating EV target specificity. Additionally, EV protein cargo analysis suggested a potential association between transcription factors and the specific functionality of trophoblastic EVs. This in vitro embryo implantation model and ZNF81 read-out provides a unique platform to study EV specific functionality in natural cell-cell communication.
Magnesium matters: unveiling hidden risks in kidney transplant patients through total and ionized magnesium profiling
Authors: Bocchi Federica , Schietzel Simeon , Huynh-Do Uyen , Vogt Bruno , Sidler Daniel
Published: July 2024

Background

In kidney transplant (KT) patients, magnesium (Mg2+) deficiency is widespread. It is often encountered early after KT, may persist longer, and is frequently promoted by calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) and tubular leakage. Studies demonstrated an association between post-KT hypomagnesemia and allograft dysfunction. The concentration of the active form, the ionized Mg2+ (iMg2+), is not measured clinically, and total Mg2+ (tMg2+) and iMg2+ correlations are conflicting. We assess the cross-sectional prevalence of hypomagnesemia in KT patients. The correlation of demographic and anthropometric parameters was also studied.

Methods

A prospective, single-center analysis of KT patients was conducted at the University Hospital of Bern, Switzerland (March 2023–August 2023). Blood samples were collected at least twice for the majority of patients. tMg2+ has been quantified from a plasma sample at the Clinical Chemistry Department of the University Hospital of Bern. The PRIME® ES analyzer (Nova Biomedical, USA) provided results for iMg2+. The following co-variables were considered: age, comorbidities, kidney disease, KT history, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and treatment (including Mg2+ supplementation and immunosuppression).

Results

A total of 208 measurements in 104 patients were performed [once in 9/104 patients (8.7%), twice in 86/104 (82.7%), and three times in 9/104 (8.7%)]. Compared to that in healthy volunteers (51 measurements in 51 participants), mean iMg2+ was significantly lower in KT patients {KT: 0.46 mmol/L [interquartile range (IQR): 0.40–0.50], volunteers: 0.57 mmol/L (IQR 0.54–0.61), p < 0.01}. Overall, iMg2+ and tMg2+ showed strong category agreement (r2 = 0.93, p < 0.01). In linear regression, low iMg2+ correlated with CNI exposure. For 110/208 measurements (52.9%), a reduced iMg2+ (cutoff: 0.42 mmol/L) was shown. In 58/208 (27.9%), both values were reduced, and 52/208 (25%) had isolated reduced iMg2+. In principal component analysis, patients with isolated low iMg2+ clustered with patients with low iMg2+ and tMg2+.

Conclusion

iMg2+ and tMg2+ were strongly correlated. A substantial proportion of patients show isolated low iMg2+. Currently, it is unclear if these patients suffer from Mg2+ deficiency.
Paramagnetic rim lesions as a biomarker to discriminate between multiple sclerosis and cerebral small vessel disease
Authors: Zhu Zhibao , Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Chun , Guo Wenliang , Chen Zhili , Chen Wei , Li Shaowu , Wang Ning , Chen Xiaochun , Fu Ying
Published: July 2024

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) and Cerebral Small Vessel Disease (CSVD) exhibit some similarities in Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), potentially leading to misdiagnosis and delaying effective treatment windows. It is unclear whether CSVD can be detected with Paramagnetic Rim Lesions (PRL), which is special in MS.

Objective

We aimed to investigate whether PRL can serve as a neuroimaging marker for discriminating between MS and CSVD.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 49 MS and 104 CSVD patients underwent 3.0 T Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Visual assessment of 37 MS patients and 89 CSVD patients with or without lacunes, cerebral microbleeds (CMBs), enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVS), white matter hyperintensity (WMH), central vein sign (CVS), and PRL. The distribution and number of PRL were then counted.

Results

Our study found that PRL was detected in over half of the MS patients but was entirely absent in CSVD patients (78.38 vs. 0%, p < 0.0001), and PRL showed high specificity with good sensitivity in discriminating between MS and CSVD (sensitivity: 78.38%, specificity: 100%, AUC: 0.96).

Conclusion

Paramagnetic Rim Lesions is a special imaging feature in MS, absent in CSVD. Detection of PRL can be very helpful in the clinical management of MS and CSVD.
Systems genetics identifies methionine as a high risk factor for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Wang Congmin , Hei Yu , Liu Yu , Bajpai Akhilesh Kumar , Li Yuhe , Guan Yawen , Xu Fuyi , Yao Cuifang
Published: July 2024

As a dietary strategy, methionine restriction has been reported to promote longevity and regulate metabolic disorders. However, the role and possible regulatory mechanisms underlying methionine in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), remain unexplored. This study utilized the data from BXD recombinant inbred (RI) mice to establish a correlation between the AD phenotype in mice and methionine level. Gene enrichment analysis indicated that the genes associated with the concentration of methionine in the midbrain are involved in the dopaminergic synaptic signaling pathway. Protein interaction network analysis revealed that glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β) was a key regulator of the dopaminergic synaptic pathway and its expression level was significantly correlated with the AD phenotype. Finally, in vitro experiments demonstrated that methionine deprivation could reduce the expression of Aβ and phosphorylated Tau, suggesting that lowering methionine levels in humans may be a preventive or therapeutic strategy for AD. In conclusion, our findings support that methionine is a high risk factor for AD. These findings predict potential regulatory network, theoretically supporting methionine restriction to prevent AD.
Electrophysiological responses to appetitive and consummatory behavior in the rostral nucleus tractus solitarius in awake, unrestrained rats
Authors: Pilato Stephen A. , O’Connell Flynn P. , Victor Jonathan D. , Di Lorenzo Patricia M.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

As the intermediate nucleus in the brainstem receiving information from the tongue and transmitting information upstream, the rostral portion of the nucleus tractus solitarius (rNTS) is most often described as a “taste relay”. Although recent evidence implicates the caudal NTS in a broad neural circuit involved in regulating ingestion, there is little information about how cells in the rNTS respond when an animal is eating solid food.

Methods

Single cells in the rNTS were recorded in awake, unrestrained rats as they explored and ate solid foods (Eating paradigm) chosen to correspond to the basic taste qualities: milk chocolate for sweet, salted peanuts for salty, Granny Smith apples for sour and broccoli for bitter. A subset of cells was also recorded as the animal licked exemplars of the five basic taste qualities: sucrose, NaCl, citric acid, quinine and MSG (Lick paradigm).

Results

Most cells were excited by exploration of a food-filled well, sometimes responding prior to contact with the food. In contrast, cells that were excited by food well exploration became significantly less active while the animal was eating the food. Most cells were broadly tuned across foods, and those cells that were recorded in both the Lick and Eating paradigms showed little correspondence in their tuning across paradigms.

Discussion

The preponderance of robust responses to the appetitive versus the consummatory phase of ingestion suggests that multimodal convergence onto cells in the rNTS may be used in decision making about ingestion.
Effect of body mass index on survival in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer receiving chemotherapy plus bevacizumab: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lang Xiaohui , Tong Chengliang , Yu Yang , Li Huiyan
Published: July 2024

Aim

This systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and the clinical outcomes in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) undergoing treatment with bevacizumab plus chemotherapy.

Methods

The search for relevant literature was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, with the final search date being October 4, 2023. We utilized the weighted mean differences (WMDs), risk ratios (RRs), or Hazard ratios (HRs) as the metric for effect sizes, which were accompanied by 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

A total of 9 studies were included for analysis. The results indicated that non-obese patients with mCRC undergoing treatment with bevacizumab experienced a reduced overall survival (OS) at the six-month compared to their obese counterparts (RR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.94 to 1.00, p = 0.047). Furthermore, no significant differences in one-year, two-year, and five-year OS, as well as PFS and median OS, were observed between obese and non-obese mCRC patients undergoing treatment with bevacizumab plus chemotherapy.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that obesity may play a role in the short-term OS of patients with mCRC undergoing bevacizumab treatment. The clinical implications of these findings underscore the importance of considering patients’ BMI in the context of mCRC care. This study may also help guide personalized treatment strategies and further research into the interplay between obesity, treatment efficacy, and patient survival in mCRC. However, further investigation is warranted to substantiate the findings of this study.
The association between composite dietary antioxidant index and diabetic retinopathy in type 2 diabetic patients: evidence from the NHANES
Authors: Liu Shasha , Zhu Zhanfang , Yu Kai , Zhang Wei , Pu Jie , Lv Ying , Tang Zhiguo , Liu Fuqiang , Sun Yongqiang
Published: July 2024

Background

Although diabetic retinopathy (DR) is closely related to dietary patterns and oxidative stress, there is little research on the relationship between the compound dietary antioxidant index (CDAI) and DR. This study aims to fill this gap by analyzing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to explore the association between CDAI and DR in patients with type 2 diabetes, in order to provide a basis for dietary guidance to prevent DR.

Methods

Data for this study was obtained from NHANES conducted between 1999 and 2020. Information regarding dietary intake was collected through 24 h dietary recall interviews. Multivariate logistic regression analyses and restricted cubic splines (RCS) were employed to explore the association between CDAI and DR. Furthermore, subgroup analyses were conducted to further examine the relationship.

Results

In this study, a total of 2,158 participants were included, with a mean age of 58.87 years. After adjusting for all potential confounding factors, multivariate logistic regression analyses consistently demonstrated a negative correlation between CDAI and DR (OR = 0.94, 95%CI: 0.90–0.98, p = 0.007). Specifically, individuals in the highest quartile of CDAI had a significantly reduced risk of DR compared to those in the lowest quartile (OR = 0.51, 95%CI: 0.34–0.75, p < 0.001). The RCS analyses further confirmed the linear negative correlation between CDAI and DR (non-linear p = 0.101). Additionally, subgroup analyses provided further evidence for the robustness of this association across different subpopulations.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the linear negative correlation between CDAI and DR in type 2 diabetic patients. Further prospective studies are still needed in the future to confirm the role of CDAI in the risk of developing DR.
Machine learning models identify micronutrient intake as predictors of undiagnosed hypertension among rural community-dwelling older adults in Thailand: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Turnbull Niruwan , Nghiep Le Ke , Butsorn Aree , Khotprom Anuwat , Tudpor Kukiat
Published: July 2024

Objective

To develop a predictive model for undiagnosed hypertension (UHTN) in older adults based on five modifiable factors [eating behaviors, emotion, exercise, stopping smoking, and stopping drinking alcohol (3E2S) using machine learning (ML) algorithms.

Methods

The supervised ML models [random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and extreme gradient boosting (XGB)] with SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) prioritization and conventional statistics (χ2 and binary logistic regression) were employed to predict UHTN from 5,288 health records of older adults from ten primary care hospitals in Thailand.

Results

The χ2 analyses showed that age and eating behavior were the predicting features of UHTN occurrence. The binary logistic regression revealed that taking food supplements/vitamins, using seasoning powder, and eating bean products were related to normotensive and hypertensive classifications. The RF, XGB, and SVM accuracy were 0.90, 0.89, and 0.57, respectively. The SHAP identified the importance of salt intake and food/vitamin supplements. Vitamin B6, B12, and selenium in the UHTN were lower than in the normotensive group.

Conclusion

ML indicates that salt intake, soybean consumption, and food/vitamin supplements are primary factors for UHTN classification in older adults.
Which pediatric practices use substance use consultation services?
Authors: Levy Sharon , Ong Mei-Sing , Minegishi Machiko , Brogna Melissa , Mountain-Ray Shannon , Neubauer Elyse , Bromberg Jonas , Straus John , Weitzman Elissa R.
Published: July 2024

Substance use disorders (SUD) are common in adolescents and young adults, though few youth with SUD receive treatment, and rates of medication for substance use disorder treatment are much lower in youth compared to adults. Pediatric primary care could present an opportunity for youth with SUD to access medication, though pediatric providers may need support. Massachusetts has provided a substance use consultation line for pediatric providers since 2018. One large network of independent primary care practices within the state has been further supported by access to resources provided through a grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. In this paper, we describe the services provided in Massachusetts and examine whether additional resources are associated with increased use of the consultation line as a marker of provider engagement in SUD treatment.
Green pepper fruits counting based on improved DeepSort and optimized Yolov5s
Authors: Du Pengcheng , Chen Shang , Li Xu , Hu Wenwu , Lan Nan , Lei Xiangming , Xiang Yang
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Green pepper yield estimation is crucial for establishing harvest and storage strategies.

Method

This paper proposes an automatic counting method for green pepper fruits based on object detection and multi-object tracking algorithm. Green pepper fruits have colors similar to leaves and are often occluded by each other, posing challenges for detection. Based on the YOLOv5s, the CS_YOLOv5s model is specifically designed for green pepper fruit detection. In the CS_YOLOv5s model, a Slim-Nick combined with GSConv structure is utilized in the Neck to reduce model parameters while enhancing detection speed. Additionally, the CBAM attention mechanism is integrated into the Neck to enhance the feature perception of green peppers at various locations and enhance the feature extraction capabilities of the model.

Result

According to the test results, the CS_YOLOv5s model of mAP, Precision and Recall, and Detection time of a single image are 98.96%, 95%, 97.3%, and 6.3 ms respectively. Compared to the YOLOv5s model, the Detection time of a single image is reduced by 34.4%, while Recall and mAP values are improved. Additionally, for green pepper fruit tracking, this paper combines appearance matching algorithms and track optimization algorithms from SportsTrack to optimize the DeepSort algorithm. Considering three different scenarios of tracking, the MOTA and MOTP are stable, but the ID switch is reduced by 29.41%. Based on the CS_YOLOv5s model, the counting performance before and after DeepSort optimization is compared. For green pepper counting in videos, the optimized DeepSort algorithm achieves ACP (Average Counting Precision), MAE (Mean Absolute Error), and RMSE (Root Mean Squared Error) values of 95.33%, 3.33, and 3.74, respectively. Compared to the original algorithm, ACP increases by 7.2%, while MAE and RMSE decrease by 6.67 and 6.94, respectively. Additionally, Based on the optimized DeepSort, the fruit counting results using YOLOv5s model and CS_YOLOv5s model were compared, and the results show that using the better object detector CS_YOLOv5s has better counting accuracy and robustness.
Expression and antiviral application of exogenous lectin (griffithsin) in sweetpotatoes
Authors: Liu Shuai , Yu Yang , Guo Ke , Zhang Qian , Jia Zhaodong , Alfredo Morales Rodriguez , Ma Peiyong , Xie Hao , Bian Xiaofeng
Published: July 2024

Griffithsin (GRFT) is a highly effective, broad-spectrum, safe, and stable viral inhibitor used to suppress a variety of viruses. However, little information is available on whether GRFT can prevent plant viral diseases. In this study, we constructed a GRFT overexpression vector containing the sweetpotato storage cell signal peptide and generated exogenous GRFT overexpression lines through genetic transformation. The transgenic plants showed notable resistance to sweetpotato virus disease in the virus nursery. To verify the antiplant virus function of GRFT, transient expression in tobacco leaves showed that GRFT inhibited the sweetpotato leaf curl virus (SPLCV). The replication of SPLCV was entirely inhibited when the concentration of GRFT reached a certain level. The results of pulldown and BIFC assays showed that GRFT did not interact with the six components of SPLCV. In addition, the mutated GRFTD/A without the binding ability of carbohydrate and anticoronavirus function, in which three aspartate residues at carbohydrate binding sites were all mutated to alanine, also inhibited SPLCV. Quantitative reverse-transcription PCR analyses showed that the tobacco antiviral-related genes HIN1, ICS1, WRKY40, and PR10 were overexpressed after GRFT/GRFTD/A injection. Furthermore, HIN1, ICS1, and PR10 were more highly expressed in the leaves injected with GRFTD/A. The results suggest that sweetpotato is able to express GRFT exogenously as a bioreactor. Moreover, exogenous GRFT expression inhibits plant viruses by promoting the expression of plant antiviral genes.
Detection, distribution, and functions of RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) in plant development and environmental signal responses
Authors: Xiang Yang , Zhang Dian , Li Lei , Xue Yi-Xuan , Zhang Chao-Yang , Meng Qing-Feng , Wang Jin , Tan Xiao-Li , Li Yu-Long
Published: July 2024

The epitranscriptomic mark N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common type of messenger RNA (mRNA) post-transcriptional modification in eukaryotes. With the discovery of the demethylase FTO (FAT MASS AND OBESITY-ASSOCIATED PROTEIN) in Homo Sapiens, this modification has been proven to be dynamically reversible. With technological advances, research on m6A modification in plants also rapidly developed. m6A modification is widely distributed in plants, which is usually enriched near the stop codons and 3′-UTRs, and has conserved modification sequences. The related proteins of m6A modification mainly consist of three components: methyltransferases (writers), demethylases (erasers), and reading proteins (readers). m6A modification mainly regulates the growth and development of plants by modulating the RNA metabolic processes and playing an important role in their responses to environmental signals. In this review, we briefly outline the development of m6A modification detection techniques; comparatively analyze the distribution characteristics of m6A in plants; summarize the methyltransferases, demethylases, and binding proteins related to m6A; elaborate on how m6A modification functions in plant growth, development, and response to environmental signals; and provide a summary and outlook on the research of m6A in plants.
Upward social comparison and social anxiety among Chinese college students: a chain-mediation model of relative deprivation and rumination
Authors: Xu Lijuan , Li Li
Published: July 2024

Background

Social anxiety has consistently emerged as a prominent manifestation of mental health issues among college students. Though the relationship between upward social comparison and social anxiety has been extensively addressed in previous literature, little attention has been paid to the underlying mechanisms at play.

Objective

The present study used a questionnaire survey to test whether upward social comparison may be associated with social anxiety in Chinese college students. The mediating role of relative deprivation and rumination was also examined.

Methods

In total, 463 college students were recruited to complete four scales, including the Upward Social Comparison Scale, the Relative Deprivation Scale, the Ruminative Thinking Scale, and the Social Anxiety Scale.

Results

The results show that upward social comparison was significantly positively correlated with relative deprivation, rumination, and social anxiety (r = 0.30, 0.31, and 0.27, respectively; p < 0.01). Second, relative deprivation was positively correlated with rumination and social anxiety (r = 0.40 and 0.17, respectively; p < 0.01). Finally, rumination was positively correlated with social anxiety (r = 0.47, p < 0.01). Moreover, upward social comparison positively predicts social anxiety, with an effect value of 0.12, while rumination plays a mediating role between upward social comparison and social anxiety, with an effect value of 0.07, and the 95% confidence interval for the indirect effect is 0.04–0.11. Separately, the chain mediation of relative deprivation and rumination had an effect value of 0.03, and the 95% confidence interval for the indirect effect is 0.02–0.05.

Conclusion

This research highlights the relationship between upward social comparison and social anxiety in Chinese society and revealed the mediating mechanisms between them, deepening our understanding of how upward social comparison increases social anxiety.
Does personality matter: examining the value of personality insights for personalized nudges that encourage the selection of learning resources
Authors: Cardenas Canto Pedro , Dimitrova Vania , Sherman Stuart , Flint Stuart W.
Published: July 2024

Nudging is a mechanism aimed at influencing people's behavior while maintaining the individual's freedom of choice. Nudges have been adopted in learning contexts where individuals are responsible for shaping their learning and, at the same time, receive guidance from the system. Not everyone responds to nudges in the same way. While social science research indicates that individual differences play a crucial role in peoples' nudgeability, there has been little research examining computational approaches that explore how individual differences affect user responses to nudges (especially in a learning context). Two studies were conducted to explore how individual differences, specifically focusing on personality, can affect nudge response in the context of healthcare education, where individuals use resources as a part of their informal learning and professional development. Different nudges, designed based on personality characteristics, were provided to draw individual users' attention to educational resources to encourage user engagement. The findings indicate that personality insights can be a predictor for nudge selection, suggesting that different nudges may be more effective when recommending learning resources to people with different personality characteristics.
Bone health education in individuals with spinal cord injury or disease—the Bare Bones Podcast Series: plan it, produce it, post it!
Authors: Craven B. Catharine , Kaiser Anita , Blencowe Lindsie A. , Jervis-Rademeyer Hope , Boag Lynn , Murphy Wendy , Miyatani Masae
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The Consortium for Spinal Cord Medicine's inaugural Clinical Practice Guideline for Bone Health and Osteoporosis Management for Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury or Disease (CSCM-CPG) was published in 2022 for a clinician audience. The aim of this project was to develop a podcast series to ensure people with lived experience with Spinal Cord Injury or Disease (PLEX) understand the CSCM-CPG content and know how to act to reduce their fracture risk.

Methods

The “Bare Bones Podcast Series” consists of nine episodes; one related to each CSCM-CPG chapter. The podcast content and the questions asked in each podcast were co-developed by PLEX partners (PLEX-P) and the project team. Two PLEX-P acted as co-hosts for the series. The invited speaker(s) were CSCM-CPG expert panel members who participated in an informal dialogue with the hosts. Each podcast closes with a specific action a listener can do to advance their bone health. The related Educational Action Planning Tool (EAT) handouts contain text and infographic information specific to each podcast episode and include key concepts and a specific actionable take-home message. Local PLEX reviewers (PLEX-R) were invited to review podcast episodes and EATs and provide their feedback through focus group participation or one-on-one (1:1) interviews. The project team revised the podcast episodes and the EATs based on feedback from the PLEX-R prior to releasing them online.

Results

Nine podcast episodes and related EATs were designed and created collaboratively with 3 PLEX-P, 22 PLEX-R, 11 CSCM-CPG expert panel members, and the project team. The episodes were titled: “Introduction to the Bare Bones of Bone Health”; “Fracture 101”; “Blood Tests—a Window into You”; “I See Your Skeleton”; “Vitamin D for all, Calcium for Some”; “Get Moving and Loading”; “Pills or Poisons & Atomic Habits”; “Snap and Crack”; and “Directions for Research”. The Bare Bones Podcast Series was shared through the project website.

Conclusions

The podcasts will aid PLEX and their family caregivers to advocate for ongoing bone health assessments and to promote an ongoing dialogue with care team members regarding how to prevent fractures and fracture-related morbidity and mortality.
Reducing time from presentation to surgical intervention for testicular torsion: implementation of a quality improvement protocol
Authors: Richardson Shannon , Huen Kathy , Benga Tabitha , Fajardo Bridgette , Sturm Renea , Lerman Steven E. , Singer Jennifer S.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Timely surgical intervention for patients with testicular torsion is a quality benchmark set by the U.S. News and World Report (USNWR) for pediatric urology. In this study, we describe and evaluate a quality improvement initiative to reduce the time to surgical intervention for testicular torsion at a single institution through the implementation of a clinical care pathway called “code torsion.”

Methods

Data abstraction was performed through retrospective chart review to assess process measures. Patients <21 years old with testicular torsion requiring surgical intervention were included. The clinical protocol “code torsion” was created by a multidisciplinary quality improvement workgroup with the primary goal of reducing the time from emergency department presentation to surgical intervention for testicular torsion. “Code torsion” was implemented in October 2021, which was assessed in addition to subsequent interventions through plan–do–study–act (PDSA) cycles.

Results

A total of 30 patients were identified prior to “code torsion” implementation and 14 thereafter. The mean time from triage to operating room (OR) was 228 min prior to “code torsion” compared with 180 min after protocol implementation (p = 0.047). The proportion of cases that had surgical intervention within the 4-h USNWR metric increased from 63% pre-protocol to 93% post-protocol (p = 0.07). Of the patients, 40% required orchiectomy prior to “code torsion” compared with 29% after implementation (p = 0.5). Patients requiring orchiectomy had a significantly longer time from symptom onset to surgical intervention (87 vs. 9.8 h, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Implementation of the protocol “code torsion” was successful in reducing the time from presentation to surgical intervention for testicular torsion. The rates of testicular salvage did not differ after “code torsion” implementation and were instead found to be dependent on the total ischemia time.
Altering Microbial Communities in Substrate to Stimulate the Growth of Healthy Button Mushrooms
Authors: Milijašević-Marčić Svetlana , Šantrić Ljiljana , Luković Jelena , Potočnik Ivana , Grujić Nikola , Drobnjaković Tanja , Marčić Dejan
Published: July 2024

Green mould, caused by Trichoderma aggressivum, is one of the major fungal diseases of button mushrooms. The main problems in chemical disease control include a lack of effective agents, the occurrence of pathogen resistance to pesticides, and the harmful impact on the environment. In an attempt to find a solution, the interaction between two beneficial microorganisms, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens B-241 (an antifungal agent) and Streptomyces flavovirens A06 (a yield stimulant), was investigated in vivo. The synergy factor (SF) was calculated as a ratio between the observed and expected impact on the yield or efficacy of disease suppression after artificial inoculation with T. aggressivum. The highest control of T. aggressivum was achieved by joint application of the two beneficial microorganisms. The additive interaction between microorganisms in efficacy against the pathogen was revealed. The largest yield was obtained in mushroom beds sprayed with the two beneficial microorganisms combined (B-241 80% and A06 20%). Regarding the impact on the yield, synergistic interaction between the two microorganisms was confirmed (SFs were 1.62 or 1.52). The introduction of optimized microbial combinations could create new possibilities for biorational edible mushroom protection, with improved yield and quality and reduced risks to human health and the environment.
Effect of Photoperiod on Dry Matter Accumulation and Partitioning in Potato
Authors: Wen Liwei , Meng Meilian , Liu Kunyu , Zhang Qionglin , Zhang Tingting , Chen Youjun , Liang Hongwei
Published: July 2024

To explore the effect of the photoperiod on the accumulation and distribution of dry matter in potato, a pot experiment was carried out in 2021 and 2022 with two varieties (Atlantic and Hezuo 88). The varieties were used as the main plot, and light treatments (short-day and long-day) were used as the subplot. The results showed that extended hours of light delayed tuber formation in Hezuo 88, however, the effect was not obvious for the Atlantic. Comprehensive analyses were carried out using the potato developmental process, dynamic equation fitting of the tuber and whole-plant dry matter accumulation, and the dry matter accumulation and distribution rate of each organ of the two varieties under two photoperiods. The two photoperiods had different effects on the parameters of rapid tuber and whole-plant dry matter accumulation: the starting point of the period of the rapid dry matter accumulation (t1), the duration period of the rapid dry matter accumulation (Δt), and the average growth rate of the period of the rapid dry matter accumulation (Vmean). According to comprehensive analysis, tuber dry matter accumulation in Atlantic was the highest under the short-day condition, while Hezuo 88 showed the lowest tuber dry matter accumulation under the long-day condition and was the latest to enter the rapid tuber dry matter accumulation period. The whole-plant dry matter accumulation in Atlantic was the highest under the long-day condition and lowest in Hezuo 88; meanwhile, Hezuo 88 was the latest to enter the rapid whole-plant dry matter accumulation period. In terms of the dry matter accumulation and dry matter partitioning ratio of various organs, Hezuo 88 had the lowest mean tuber dry matter accumulation and partitioning ratio under the long-day condition but the highest mean stem, leaf, root, underground stem, and stolon dry matter partitioning ratio. On the contrary, Atlantic had the highest mean tuber dry matter accumulation and portioning ratio under the short-day condition but the lowest mean stem, leaf, root, underground stem, and stolon dry matter partitioning ratio. It was concluded that different varieties of potato respond differently to the photoperiod. In the case of Hezuo 88, prolonging the photoperiod affected the dynamics and distribution of dry matter accumulation; increased the stem, leaf, root, and underground stem dry matter partitioning ratio; and decreased the tuber dry matter partitioning ratio, which resulted in a decrease in tuber dry matter accumulation and consequently delayed the emergence of the equilibrium period between the aboveground and underground dry matter.
Influence of Temperature and LED Light Spectra on Flavonoid Contents in Poa pratensis
Authors: Schweiger Andreas , Bernhardt Heinz
Published: July 2024

Light and temperature are the driving forces in plant development and growth. Specific photoreceptors provide the ability to sense and interpret light and temperature to regulate growth. Under the limited light conditions in most sports stadiums, natural grasses suffer from light deficiency. Artificial light provided by light-emitting diodes (LEDs) is used to increase their growth and adjust their development. Flavonoids like flavonols and anthocyanins are influenced by light conditions and temperature. Increased blue light can elevate the content of these secondary metabolites. Remote measurements of internal parameters using non-destructive methods provided information on their content under different temperature conditions for quality monitoring. This experiment tested flavonoid contents in Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) for different blue-to-red light ratios (0.6 and 0.4) and three temperature courses (constant temperature of 4 °C, constant temperature of 12 °C, and temperature switching among 12–8–4–8–12 °C). The results show elevated levels of flavonoids under blue-dominant artificial light as well as increased content under low-temperature (4 °C) conditions. The lack of flavonoids at elevated temperatures (12 °C), especially under red-dominant light, suggests an increased requirement for artificial blue light at increased temperatures. Non-destructive flavonoid determination was suitable for this experiment and can therefore be used for practical sports turf quality monitoring.
Response of Elymus sibiricus (Siberian Wildryegrass) to Combined Application of Nitrogen and Phosphorus during Aging on the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wu Rui , Liu Wenhui , Zhang Yongchao , Liang Guoling , Li Wen , Liu Kaiqiang
Published: July 2024

Elymus sibiricus plays a crucial role in ecological protection and animal husbandry. However, after many years of growth, the biomass of E. sibiricus decreases, and the plants degrade. Moreover, there is no good solution to the problem of degradation of Elymus sibiricus; the addition of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertilizers is the primary measure of cultivation management to improve yield, so it is crucial to find the appropriate level of fertilization. This study performed a two-factor split-plot experiment, including four levels of N (0, 45, 60, and 75 kg·hm−2) and four levels of P (0, 60, 75, and 90 kg·hm−2), to investigate the effect of N and P fertilizers on yield, yield components, and photosynthesis characteristics of E. sibiricus. The results showed that the forage yield in 2017 was higher than in 2018. The forage yield in 2017 was highest at N75P0 with a value of 29,926 kg·hm−2, and in 2018 it was highest at N45P0 and N75P0 with a value of 12,266 kg·hm−2 and 12,233 kg·hm−2, respectively, which demonstrates the large impact of year effects on the forage yield. All traits increased with the increase in N and P fertilizer application, but with excess fertilizer application, the photosynthesis was limited, leading to a slowdown in growth and a decrease in yield. In addition, under adequate N fertilization, the role of P fertilization was not significant (p > 0.05). N, P, and N × P can significantly (p < 0.05) affect the yield traits and forage yield of E. sibiricus. According to the PCA, it is clear that N fertilizer has the largest effect, and the growth capacity of degraded E. sibiricus grassland can be restored by adding 75 kg·hm−2 of nitrogen fertilizer.
Sugar Accumulation Patterns and Transcriptome Analysis during the Developmental Stage of Small-Fruit Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus L.)
Authors: Zhang Xuelian , Xu Binghua , Luo Dexu , Xu Wenzhao , Yin Lian , Zhang Changwei , Gu Yan , Zhao Jianfeng , Wang Weiwei , Liu Lu , Bai Tian , Sun Yudong
Published: July 2024

The sugar content in watermelon significantly influences its flavor. To understand the sugar accumulation pattern in small-fruited watermelon and identify candidate genes involved in sugar synthesis and conversion, we measured the sugar content (sucrose, fructose, and glucose) at five developmental stages: 10d, 16d, 22d, 28d, and 34d post-pollination. Two watermelon varieties with the largest sugar content difference at 28d post-pollination (high-sugar G38-28 and low-sugar 482276-28) were selected for transcriptome sequencing. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were validated using RT-qPCR. Additionally, the sugar contents of three commercial varieties (‘Su Meng NO.5’, ‘Su Meng NO.6’, ‘Su Meng NO.7’) and their parents were compared at five stages. Results showed glucose and fructose levels peaked between 22d and 28d, followed by a decrease, while sucrose content continuously increased. F1 hybrids exhibited glucose and sucrose trends similar to their paternal parent and fructose trends similar to their maternal parent. Transcriptome sequencing identified 9337 DEGs (5072 upregulated and 4265 downregulated). Gene Ontology analysis highlighted overrepresentation in categories such as pectinase and oxidoreductase activity. KEGG analysis identified 12 DEGs involved in sugar synthesis and conversion pathways, including phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and pentose and glucuronate interconversions. RT-qPCR validation corroborated the transcriptome data. These findings explain the distinct sugar accumulation patterns in G38-28 and 482276-28 at the transcriptional level, offering insights for genetic breeding and regulation of key sugar-related genes in watermelon.
The Influence of Green Manure Planting on the Spectroscopic Characteristics of Dissolved Organic Matter in Freshwater-Leached Saline–Alkali Soil at Different Depths
Authors: Wang Yuhao , Yin Chengjie , Wang Jingkuan , Ji Xiaohui , Liu Xinwei
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the influence of green manure planting on the spectroscopic properties of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in saline–alkali soil under freshwater leaching conditions at different soil depths. The UV254, UV253/UV203, α300, α355, SUVA254, SUVA260, and SR ultraviolet parameters indicated reductions in the content of large molecular substances, benzene ring substitution degree, colored dissolved organic matter, aromaticity, and hydrophobic components in the soil leachate DOM with an increasing soil depth. Compared with the non-green manure treatment control, green manure planting mitigated the leaching of dissolved organic matter in soil during saline irrigation, with rape green manure demonstrating superior effectiveness. Utilizing three-dimensional fluorescence combined with parallel factor analysis, this study analyzed three fluorescent components of soil leachate DOM: C1 (visible-light fulvic acid), C2 (humic acid), and C3 (tyrosine-like protein). The combined contribution of the two humic substance components (C1 + C2) was approximately 70%, indicating the dominance of humic substances in leachate DOM. The fluorescence parameters of soil leachate DOM included an average of the fluorescence index (FI) values between 1.4 and 1.9, low humification index (HIX) values consistently below 4, and biological index (BIX) values ranging from 0.8 to 1.0, suggesting a mixed source, low humification degree, poor stability, and moderate self-source characteristics. Compared with the non-green manure treatment control, both the green manure treatments exhibited a relatively higher proportion of biogenic sources and humification degree in soil leachate DOM. This suggests that planting green manure can reduce the relative DOM content under freshwater leaching conditions, increase the proportion of biogenic sources in soil leachate DOM, and enhance soil humification. Planting rapeseed green manure can diminish the leaching of DOM from land sources and augment soil humification.