bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perspectivas sobre Avosidades em contextos socioculturais
Authors: Rabinovich Elaine Pedreira , Azambuja Rosa Maria da Motta , Neves Sinara Dantas
Published: September 2024

Resumo
Este artigo apresenta reflexões sobre avosidade decorrentes de um seminário intitulado Seminário Internacional de Avosidades em Contextos Sócioculturais, pela Universidade Católica do Salvador – Bahia, Brasil, realizado em comemoração ao Dia Internacional dos Avós, em 26 de julho de 2024, na modalidade online. Objetivou relatar os avanços e desafios encontrados nas relações intergeracionais entre avós e netos abordados por investigadores do Brasil, Uruguai e Portugal e, deste modo, promover o aprofundamento e debate acadêmico e profissional. Foi realizada uma pesquisa documental, reflexiva e de natureza qualitativa a partir da exposição oral dos participantes do Seminário. O corpus deste artigo está dividido em seis eixos temáticos, correspondentes às apresentações dos diversos pesquisadores convidados: (1) a experiência de ser avó; (2) os avós em ciberespaços; (3) os desafios que permeiam a relação avós e netos; (4) avós com demências;(5) casamento e avosidade; (6) avós cuidadores e escolarização dos netos. Concluiu-se, a partir das exposições, que o tema das avosidades tem um alcance amplo, abrangendo a pessoalidade dos avós, a área social em que avós são cuidadores e provedores e os cuidados referentes à saúde e educação. Deste modo, o Seminário fomentou o desejo de divulgar o conhecimento compartilhado por acadêmicos de universidades nacionais e internacionais, evidenciando possibilidades e desafios em diversos contextos socioculturais.
Aspectos definidores da Linfadenite Mesentérica: Uma condição rara e subexplorada
Authors: Roque Clara de Freitas , Araújo Isabela Fernandes Marcilio , Guimarães Larissa Kely Rocha , Duarte Luan Alvarenga de Almeida , Veloso Bruna Carvalho
Published: September 2024

Introdução: A linfadenite mesentérica (LM) é uma síndrome caracterizada por dor no quadrante inferior direito do abdomên, resultante de uma condição inflamatória dos linfonodos mesentéricos. É uma condição rara e autolimitada, que geralmente não apresenta complicações, mas mimetiza alguns quadros, como o de apendicite aguda. Objetivo: Definir informações gerais sobre a linfadenite mesentérica. Materiais e Métodos: Consiste em uma revisão integrativa de literatura acerca das características clínicas gerais sobre a linfadenite mesentérica e suas formas de abordagem. Foi utilizada a estratégia PICO para a elaboração de uma pergunta norteadora. Outrossim, realizou-se o cruzamento dos descritores “Linfadenite Mesentérica”; “Manifestações Clínicas”; “Propedêutica”, nas bases de dados National Library of Medicine (PubMed MEDLINE), Scientific Eletronic Library Online (SCIELO), Ebscohost, Google Scholar e Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde (BVS). Resultados e Discussão: As evidências acerca da LM são extremamente limitadas, dificultando a identificação do padrão epidemiológico e das outras características definidoras da doença. O pico de acometimento aparenta ser entre 5 e 8 anos. Dor abdominal, náusea, vômitos e febre constituem o quadro clínico. Linfocitose é frequentemente observada. Complicações não foram documentadas e o prognóstico é favorável, em média, após quatro semanas. Conclusão: Devido à raridade da linfadenite mesentérica, à natureza autolimitada do quadro e à escassez de publicações dedicadas exclusivamente ao tema, ainda é difícil delimitar com precisão os padrões clínicos e laboratoriais que definem essa condição. Estudos rigorosos são essenciais para aprimorar a compreensão e o tratamento da linfadenite mesentérica.
Alterações neurológicas em pacientes com Púrpura Trombocitopénica Trombótica e deficiência de ADAMTS13: Um relato de caso
Authors: Antunes Phamela de Freitas Geraldo , Pereira Daniel Antunes , Oliveira Fernanda Alvarez de , Dantas Shara Aline Bueno , Araújo Bárbara Fernandes Costa de , Moura Andreza de Lima , Moraes Lígia Costa de , Lins Amanda Menescal Sias , Pereira Priscila Marino , Dias Pablo Rafael Chaves , Lemos Guilherme Anderson de Freitas
Published: September 2024

O objetivo deste artigo é relatar um caso de Púrpura Trombocitopênica Trombótica (PTT) com manifestações neurológicas significativas, destacando a importância do diagnóstico precoce e do manejo terapêutico adequado para melhorar o prognóstico dos pacientes. Paciente adulto, previamente hígido, que apresentou sintomas de PTT em outubro de 2022,  49 anos, foi admitido com cefaleia intensa, desorientação e equimoses, associado a plaquetopenia, anemia hemolítica microangiopática e comprometimento renal e cardíaco. O diagnóstico de PTT foi baseado em trombocitopenia grave, anemia hemolítica, presença de esquizócitos, elevações de LDH e bilirrubina, e níveis reduzidos de ADAMTS13. A terapia incluiu corticoides, caplacizumabe e plasmaférese, com resposta clínica parcial. No entanto, o paciente desenvolveu novas manifestações neurológicas, incluindo dislalia e isquemia cerebral, evidenciadas por tomografia computadorizada. A análise do caso sugere que a deficiência severa de ADAMTS13 foi o principal fator relacionado à gravidade das complicações neurológicas, mesmo havendo dissociação entre local  da isquemia e clínica apresentada. Este estudo de caso contribui para a literatura ao detalhar um episódio raro e grave de PTT com complicações neurológicas, ressaltando a necessidade de intervenções rápidas e precisas para evitar a progressão da doença. Apesar das limitações inerentes ao estudo de caso único, os achados reforçam a importância do tratamento imediato, incluindo plasmaférese e imunossupressão, para reduzir a mortalidade e melhorar a recuperação dos pacientes com PTT.
Structural variation in pediatric cancer: characterizing tumor genomes to improve patient care
Authors:   , van Belzen Ianthe Adriana Elisabeth Maria
Published: September 2024

Cancer is characterized by uncontrolled cell division and widespread disruption of biological processes due to changes in the DNA (mutations). Cancer usually occurs later in life when cells have acquired sufficient 'driver' mutations that contribute to rapid growth and division. Childhood cancer forms an exception, as there are usually few mutations that lead to a stop or 'wrong turn' during tissue development. Certain rearrangements in the structure of the DNA (structural variants, SVs) are characteristic driver mutations for specific types of cancer. However, the effect of the majority of SVs on (cancer) cells is unknown and accurate detection of SVs is challenging.

In this thesis, we addressed these issues so that analysis of SVs can be more effectively incorporated in clinical practice. Our work shows that combining DNA and RNA sequencing data enables more accurate detection of SVs that are important for diagnostics. It also provides new insights into the effect of SVs on tumor cells. This improves the usefulness of SVs as biomarkers to divide patients into risk groups (stratification). In addition, we investigated the role of complex rearrangements in childhood cancer. These have been discovered in aggressive forms of adult cancer before. This work shows that complex rearrangements commonly occur across multiple types of childhood cancers and can result in the acquisition of driver mutations. Especially for bone cancer, which has many complex rearrangements, quantifying the instability and complexity of tumor DNA is promising for stratification. In summary, characterizing structural variation in childhood cancer can provide new insights in tumor biology and ultimately improve patient care.
EFEKTIVITAS PENERAPAN SMART LIVING MELALUI APLIKASI TEMAN BUS DI KOTA PALEMBANG
Authors: Purnama Bagas Putra , Kariem M. Qur’anul , Isabella Isabella
Published: September 2024

This research aims to determine the effectiveness of implementing Smart Living through the Teman Bus application in Palembang City and providing benefits both theoretically and practically. Application Teman Bus is one of the public transport development programs in urban areas. This application is road-based using technology and non- cash based to improve the safety and security of people's mobility. Application Teman Bus the one in Palembang City is a concept design Buy the Service (BTS) was first issued by the Ministry of Transportation of the Republic of Indonesia. The Teman Bus application will automatically add regulations and be neater, and more sophisticated for transportation users in the city of Palembang. Potency Smart Living in Palembang City supports the realization Smart City. The research method used is a qualitative method that aims to collect accurate and objective data related to the issue being discussed, data collection techniques that involve interaction, including observation, interviews, and documentation. Smart Living is part of the six concept areas Smart City discusses criteria and concepts on how to better manage the quality of life and habits (culture) in an area).
IMPLEMENTASI KEBIJAKAN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION 30% KUOTA DALAM KETERWAKILAN PEREMPUAN DI DPRD KOTA TASIKMALAYA TAHUN 2019
Authors: Irawati Irawati , Nuraini Siti
Published: September 2024

This reserach aims to analyze how the 30% women’s affirmative action policy impact women’s representation in the Tasikmalaya City DPRD and explain the factors that hinder the 30% women’s representation policy in the 2019 legislative elections. This research is motivated by the case of the decline in women’s representation in 2019, namely only reached 6.7 %. With this relatively small number, it is a concern for the Tasikmalaya city government to make more efforts regarding the empowerment of women in thei participation in the political field, especiallyin legislative institutions. This research uses a qualitative method with a descriptive approach. Data collection was carried out using literature study techniques and field studies through observation and interviews. The data source comes from 4 party management members consisting of the Golkar, Gerindra, PDI Perjuangan, and PPP parties, then 2 of them and the KPUD commisioner and a female member of the DPRD council. The results of this research show that the affirmative action policy with a minimum quota of 30% of women in the legislative election nomination stagehas been fulfilled by political parties. This can be seen from the placement of women’s representation in each electoral district in Tasikmalaya city. However, this fulfillment has not yet had a significant impact on increasing women’s representation in Tasikmalaya City DPRD seats, this is caused by several factors that occur, including economic limitations, social contruction, and also party networking. Political is still not optimal for increasing women representation.
Implementasi Pendaftaran Tanah Untuk Pensertipikatan Tanah di Kabupaten Jepara
Authors: . Waskito , Kuswandi Aos
Published: September 2024

Penerbitan sertipikat tanah berdasarkan PP No. 24 tahun 1997 tentang Pendaftaran Tanah di Kantor Pertanahan Kabupaten Jepara baru mencapai 30,35%. Rendahnya penerbitan sertipikat tanah di Kabupaten Jepara menarik untuk dilakukan penelitian. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui: implementasi kebijakan Peraturan Pemerintah No. 24 tahun 1997 tentang Pendaftaran Tanah di Kabupaten Jepara; hambatan-hambatan penerbitan sertipikat tanah Kabupaten Jepara; dan upaya-upaya dalam mengatasi hambatan-hambatan penerbitan sertipikat tanah. Penelitian ini berlandaskan teori implementasi kebijakan George Edward III yang menegaskan bahwa keberhasilan implementasi kebijakan ditentukan oleh faktor-faktor: komunikasi, sumberdaya, disposisi dan struktur birokrasi. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif dengan teknik pengumpulan data melalui observasi, wawancara dan studi dokumentasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa implementasi PP 24/1997 tentang Pendaftaran Tanah dalam rangka pencapaian target penerbitan sertipikat tanah, berupa variabel: faktor komunikasi yang sebagian belum effektif; faktor sumberdaya manusia dan peralatan yang sebagian belum optimal; faktor disposisi sudah optimal; dan faktor struktur birokrasi yang sebagian belum optimal. Hambatan tersebut harus diatasi melalui manajemen dan pendelegasian yang efektif.
A Historical Institutionalist Reexamination of the Natural Foot and Natural Breast Movements
Authors: Lu Yihao
Published: September 2024

This study analyzes the Natural Foot and Natural Breast movements that occurred successively in the late Qing Dynasty and the early Republic of China by adopting historical institutionalism. It conceptualizes two “gendered social institutions (GSI)” that existed in Chinese society before and after the Natural Foot Movement: The old GSI motivated women to engage in foot-binding through offering positive feedback within marriage and family, while the new GSI justified male's actions of creating new forms of governmentality and enhancing the state's infrastructural power by eliminating women’s harmful body practices. The new GSI failed to provide women with a clear path to earn positive feedback, so it was resisted by some women who had a strong path dependence on the old GSI through the regressive practice of breast-binding.
Integrative study of chicken lung transcriptome to understand the host immune response during Newcastle disease virus challenge
Authors: Vanamamalai Venkata Krishna , Priyanka E. , Kannaki T. R. , Sharma Shailesh
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Newcastle disease is one of the significant issues in the poultry industry, having catastrophic effects worldwide. The lung is one of the essential organs which harbours Bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue and plays a vital role in the immune response. Leghorn and Fayoumi breeds are known to have differences in resistance to Newcastle disease. Along with genes and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are also known to regulate various biological pathways through gene regulation.

Methods

This study analysed the lung transcriptome data and identified the role of genes and long non-coding RNAs in differential immune resistance. The computational pipeline, FHSpipe, as used in our previous studies on analysis of harderian gland and trachea transcriptome was used to identify genes and lncRNAs. This was followed by differential expression analysis, functional annotation of genes and lncRNAs, identification of transcription factors, microRNAs and finally validation using qRT-PCR.

Results and discussion

A total of 8219 novel lncRNAs were identified. Of them, 1263 lncRNAs and 281 genes were differentially expressed. About 66 genes were annotated with either an immune-related GO term or pathway, and 12 were annotated with both. In challenge and breed-based analysis, most of these genes were upregulated in Fayoumi compared to Leghorn, and in timepoint-based analysis, Leghorn challenge chicken showed downregulation between time points. A similar trend was observed in the expression of lncRNAs. Co-expression analysis has revealed several lncRNAs co-expressing with immune genes with a positive correlation. Several genes annotated with non-immune pathways, including metabolism, signal transduction, transport of small molecules, extracellular matrix organization, developmental biology and cellular processes, were also impacted. With this, we can understand that Fayoumi chicken showed upregulated immune genes and positive cis-lncRNAs during both the non-challenged and NDV-challenge conditions, even without viral transcripts in the tissue. This finding shows that these immune-annotated genes and coexpressing cis-lncRNAs play a significant role in Fayoumi being comparatively resistant to NDV compared to Leghorn. Our study affirms and expands upon the outcomes of previous studies and highlights the crucial role of lncRNAs during the immune response to NDV.

Conclusion

This analysis clearly shows the differences in the gene expression patterns and lncRNA co-expression with the genes between Leghorn and Fayoumi, indicating that the lncRNAs and co-expressing genes might potentially have a role in differentiating these breeds. We hypothesise that these genes and lncRNAs play a vital role in the higher resistance of Fayoumi to NDV than Leghorn. This study can pave the way for future studies to unravel the biological mechanism behind the regulation of immune-related genes.
STEM leaders promoting resilience within equity-centered K-12 STEM education organizations
Authors: Marshall Stefanie L. , Galey-Horn Sarah
Published: September 2024

Introduction

This study examines storytelling’s role in supporting organizational resilience for equitable STEM instruction by schools and districts. Within K-12 organizations, some practices may be perceived as mundane, but storytelling supports transformation toward achieving equitable STEM learning opportunities in a school. Therefore, storytelling is a means for achieving organizational resilience.

Methods

Through a comparative case study design, this paper explores challenges identified by educational leaders through focus groups who worked with teams to activate interdisciplinary learning to support thriving STEM programming to enhance equitable science instruction.

Results

We characterize STEM systems’ social and organizational phenomena from three educational contexts. We start by sharing these systems’ backgrounds and educational goals, with specific attentiveness to their STEM programming. We then share the stories told by their leaders to promote organizational resilience (these characteristics, as previously described, are italicized throughout this section) within each of the given contexts.

Discussion

The STEM stories in this study shared the state of STEM within a school and district, the instructional mission of STEM, and a community STEM story.
What competencies should early childhood educators possess for the future? An expert judgement approach
Authors: Pinya-Medina Carme , Morcillo-Loro Virginia , Ferrer-Ribot María , Oliver Barceló María del Mar
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The objective of this research was to identify and discuss the professional competencies essential for early childhood educators to effectively navigate current challenges and anticipate future ones. The study aims to contribute to the development of a competency framework tailored specifically for early childhood education.

Methods

A proposed set of general teaching competencies was subjected to validation by a panel of experts, including early childhood teachers and academic professionals specializing in this field. The process involved adapting and refining these competencies to suit the early childhood education stage.

Results

Expert consultation confirmed the relevance and appropriateness of the proposed competency dimensions for early childhood educators. The experts emphasized several critical aspects, including the importance of building relationships, providing emotional support, employing nonverbal communication, and fostering family involvement. They also highlighted the significance of observation and educational documentation in the early years.

Discussion

The findings underscore the need for reflection on the specific professional competencies required for early childhood educators, which is crucial for enhancing both initial and ongoing teacher training programs. This research contributes to the ongoing dialogue about the competencies necessary for educators, emphasizing the development of teaching practices that address the unique demands of early childhood education.
The research progress and Hotspot analysis of polymer cement mortar based on bibliometrics
Authors: Wang Peng , Wang Fei , Ma Mingquan
Published: September 2024

Ordinary cement mortar is commonly used in building engineering due to its high strength, affordability, and easy access to raw materials. However, it suffers from high shrinkage and poor impermeability, which result in reduced building service life and significant carbon dioxide emissions during production. Polymer additives have been found to enhance the mechanical properties of cement mortar, leading to increased interest in polymer cement mortar by researchers. This study collected and analyzed 420 papers published between 1995 and 2023 in the field of polymer cement mortar. The analysis included publication trends, author cooperation networks, national cooperation networks, published journals, co-citation of references, and keywords. The findings reveal a rapid publication growth from 2018 to 2023, with China making the most significant contribution in this field. Among the scholars, Ru Wang has published the highest number of articles in the field of polymer cement mortar, while Ohama’s papers have been cited the most. The journal with the most articles is Construction and Building Materials. Research in polymer cement mortar focuses on mechanical properties, performance, hydration process, microstructure, and other related aspects. The reinforcement effect of polymer-modified cement mortar on reinforced concrete and applying superabsorbent polymer-modified cement mortar and polymer fiber in cement mortar have emerged as recent research frontiers. This study can help scholars quickly identify high-quality references and research frontiers in the field of polymer cement mortar while also providing research directions and ideas.
PCL-gelatin honey scaffolds promote Staphylococcus aureus agrA expression in biofilms with Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Hilliard Genevieve M. , Wilkinson Thomas Stephens , Harris Llinos G. , Jenkins Rowena E. , Shornick Laurie P.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Bacterial infection and biofilm formation contribute to impaired healing in chronic diabetic wounds. Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are found in human diabetic wound biofilms. They may develop antibiotic resistance, increasing the urgency for alternative or complementary therapies. Diabetic wound healing may be improved with the use of biomedically engineered scaffolds, which can also serve as delivery systems for antibacterial compounds. Manuka honey is a potent antibacterial and wound care agent due to its high osmolarity, low pH, and constituents (such as methylglyoxal). Honey exhibits bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects, modulates the expression of biofilm forming genes, and restores antibiotic susceptibility in previously drug resistant pathogens.

Methods

In this study, we created a dermal regeneration template (DRT) composed of polycaprolactone-gelatin (PCL-gelatin) and Manuka honey to retain honey in the wound and also provide a scaffold for tissue regeneration.

Results and discussion

Soluble Manuka honey inhibited the planktonic and biofilm growth of both S. aureus (UWH3) and P. aeruginosa (PA14) co-cultures. Manuka honey embedded PCL-gelatin scaffolds did not exhibit bacteriostatic or bactericidal effects on cocultures of UHW3 and PA14; however, they promoted the expression of AgrA, a gene associated with dispersal of S. aureus biofilms.
Health benefits and risks of fermented foods—the PIMENTO initiative
Authors: Todorovic Smilja , Akpinar Asli , Assunção Ricardo , Bär Cornelia , Bavaro Simona L. , Berkel Kasikci Muzeyyen , Domínguez-Soberanes Julieta , Capozzi Vittorio , Cotter Paul D. , Doo Eun-Hee , Gündüz Ergün Burcu , Guzel Mustafa , Harsa Hayriye S. , Hastaoglu Emre , Humblot Christèle , Hyseni Bahtir , Hosoglu Muge I. , Issa Aline , Karakaş-Budak Barçın , Karakaya Sibel , Kesenkas Harun , Keyvan Erhan , Künili Ibrahim E. , Kütt Mary-Liis , Laranjo Marta , Louis Sandrine , Mantzouridou Fani T. , Matalas Antonia , Mayo Baltasar , Mojsova Sandra , Mukherjee Arghya , Nikolaou Anastasios , Ortakci Fatih , Paveljšek Diana , Perrone Giancarlo , Pertziger Eugenia , Santa Dushica , Sar Taner , Savary-Auzeloux Isabelle , Schwab Clarissa , Starowicz Małgorzata , Stojanović Marko , Syrpas Michail , Tamang Jyoti P. , Yerlikaya Oktay , Yilmaz Birsen , Malagon-Rojas Jeadran , Salminen Seppo , Frias Juana , Chassard Christophe , Vergères Guy
Published: September 2024

Worldwide, fermented foods (FF) are recognized as healthy and safe. Despite the rapid increase of research papers, there is a lack of systematic evaluation of the health benefits and risks of FF. The COST Action CA20128 “Promoting innovation of fermented foods” (PIMENTO) aims to provide a comprehensive assessment on the available evidence by compiling a set of 16 reviews. Seven reviews will cover clinical and biological endpoints associated with major health indicators across several organ systems, including the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurological, immune, and skeletal systems. Nine reviews will address broader biological questions associated with FF including bioactive compounds and vitamin production, nutrient bioavailability and bioaccessibility, the role of FF in healthy diets and personalized nutrition, food safety, regulatory practices, and finally, the health properties of novel and ethnic FF. For each outcome assessed in the reviews, an innovative approach will be adopted based on EFSA’s published guidance for health claim submissions. In particular, each review will be composed of three parts: (1) a systematic review of available human studies; (2) a non-systematic review of the mechanism of action related to the clinical endpoints measured by the human studies identified in part 1; and (3) a non-systematic review of the characterization of the FF investigated in the human studies identified in part 1. The evidence and research gaps derived from the reviews will be summarized and published in the form of a strategic road map that will pave the way for future research on FF.
Case report: Male genital system, soft tissue and myocardial metastases in a patient with exon 11-mutated GIST of unknown origin
Authors: Rota Michele , Sganzerla Federico , Zuffante Michele , Mafficini Andrea , Pavarana Michele , Milella Michele
Published: September 2024

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most frequent mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract, usually arising in the stomach or in the small bowel. Most GISTs are diagnosed early due to the presence of symptoms (e.g., abdominal discomfort/pain, anemia, etc.); at times, diagnosis could be incidental (e.g., ultrasound or endoscopic examinations performed for other reasons, surgical intervention for a different disease, etc.). Diagnosis occurs when the tumor is already metastatic in 10-20% of cases. The most common metastatic sites are liver, peritoneum, and loco-regional lymph nodes. Here, we present the case of a male patient with an atypical presentation of disease: as a matter of fact, during his oncological history, he developed metastases in unlikely sites, such as penis, scrotum, myocardium, and soft tissues.
Antitumor properties of griseofulvin and its toxicity
Authors: Yu Nanqiong , Fu Yixiao , Fan Qingkui , Lin Li , Ning Zhifeng , Leng Dongze , Hu Meichun , She Tonghui
Published: September 2024

Griseofulvin (GF), which is mainly extracted from Penicillium griseofulvum, is a heat-resistant, chlorine-containing non-polyene antifungal antibiotic. Previous research shows that GF has a variety of pharmacological effects, such as anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiviral, and antitumor effects. In recent years, GF has received extensive attention for its antitumor effects as a natural compound, offering a low price, a wide range of uses, and other beneficial characteristics. However, no comprehensive review of GF pharmacological activity in tumors has been published so far. In order to fully elucidate the antitumor activities of GF, this review focuses on the antitumor potential and toxicity of GF and its derivatives, based on a literature search using PubMed, Web of Science, and other databases, to lay a good foundation for further research of GF and the development of new drugs for antitumor activities.
Dynamics of apex and leaf development in barley as affected by PPD-H1 alleles in two contrasting PHYC backgrounds under short or long photoperiod
Authors: Parrado Jorge D. , Savin Roxana , Slafer Gustavo A.
Published: September 2024

Barley development from seedling to flowering involves both external and internal changes, the latter requiring microscopic observation. Internal changes allow for the classification of preflowering development into three phases: vegetative, early reproductive, and late reproductive. Genetic and environmental factors influence the duration of these phases, impacting grain yield. Photoperiod-sensitivity genes PPD-H1 play a major role in flowering time, affecting adaptation; however, the effect might also be direct (beyond affecting phenology). In this paper, we aimed to assess how PPD-H1 alleles affect barley development, including the progression of growth phases, leaf emergence, tillering dynamics, and spikelet development. Two experiments (field and controlled conditions) were conducted with a factorial combination of (i) four near-isogenic lines (NILs) for PPD-H1 alleles (ppd-H1 or Ppd-H1) under two contrasting PHYC genetic backgrounds (PhyC-l and PhyC-e) and (ii) two photoperiod conditions (short and long days). As expected, longer photoperiods led to a shorter growth cycle. All subphases of time to flowering, final leaf number, and phyllochron were affected by photoperiod. The effects of PPD-H1 on flowering time depended on the PHYC genetic backgrounds and photoperiod conditions. PPD-H1 effects on flowering time were associated with leaf number and phyllochron; the interplay between leaf number and phyllochron affected mainly the late reproductive phase. We also found that although PPD-H1 did not affect the phyllochron of the first six leaves, the phyllochron of leaves appearing later, when grown under a short photoperiod, was consistently increased in lines carrying the ppd-H1 allele. Tillering dynamics exhibited variability, but PPD-H1 did not affect the final spike number under a 24-h photoperiod.
Maize/soybean intercropping with nitrogen supply levels increases maize yield and nitrogen uptake by influencing the rhizosphere bacterial diversity of soil
Authors: Zhang Liqiang , Feng Yudi , Zhao Zehang , Cui Zhengguo , Baoyin Bate , Wang Hongyu , Li Qiuzhu , Cui Jinhu
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Intercropping practices play a crucial role in enhancing and maintaining the biodiversity and resiliency of agroecosystems, as well as promoting stable and high crop yields. Yet the relationships between soil nitrogen, microbes, and yield in maize cultivated under maize/soybean intercropping systems remain unclear.

Methods

To fill that knowledge gap, here we collected maize rhizosphere soil at the staminate stage after 6 consecutive years of maize/soybean intercropping, to investigate how intercropping and nitrogen application rates affected nitrogen utilization by crops and soil microbial community composition and function. We also examined correlations of those responses with yields, to clarify the main ways that yield is enhanced via intercropping and by nitrogenous fertilizer gradient changes generated by different nitrogen application rates.

Results

The amount of applied fertilizer was 240 kg N ha-1 was best for obtaining a high maize yield and also led to the greatest nitrogen-use efficiency and bacterial diversity. Under the same N application rate, intercropping increased the maize yield by 31.17% and soil nitrogen (total, ammonium and nitrate nitrogen) by 14.53%, on average, in comparison to monocropping. The enrichment of Gemmatimonas and Bradyrhizobium significantly increased the soil nitrogen content, and a greater relative abundance of Sphingomonas and Gemmatimonas increased the maize yield, whereas enrichment of Candidatus_Udaeobacter and Bradyrhizobium decreased it. The benefits of intercropping mainly arise from augmenting the abundance of beneficial microorganisms and enhancing the efficiency of N use by crop plants.

Discussion

This study’s findings are of key importance to bolster the stability of agro-ecosystems, to guide the scientific rational use of nitrogen fertilizers, and to provide a sound theoretical basis for achieving the optimal management of intensive crop-planting patterns and green sustainable development.
Molecular analysis of the reactions in Salicornia europaea to varying NaCl concentrations at various stages of development to better exploit its potential as a new crop plant
Authors: Fussy Andre , Papenbrock Jutta
Published: September 2024

Freshwater scarcity demands exploration of alternative resources like saline water and soils. Understanding the molecular mechanisms behind NaCl regulation in potential crop plants becomes increasingly important for promoting saline agriculture. This study investigated the euhalophyte Salicornia europaea, analyzing its gene expression, yield, and total phenolic compounds under hydroponic cultivation. We employed five salinity levels (0, 7.5, 15, 22.5, and 30 g/L NaCl) across five harvests at 15-day intervals, capturing plant development. Notably, this design deviated from conventional gene expression studies by recording organ-specific responses (shoots and roots) in plants adapted to long-term salinity treatments at various developmental stages. The highest fresh mass of S. europaea was observed four months after germination in 15 g/L NaCl. Identifying a reliable set of reference genes for normalizing gene expression data was crucial due to comparisons across shoots, roots, developmental stages, and salinity levels. A set of housekeeping genes – ubiquitin c (SeUBC), actin (SeActin) and dnaJ-like protein (SeDNAJ) – was identified for this purpose. Interestingly, plants grown without NaCl (0 g/L) displayed upregulation of certain genes associated with a NaCl deficiency related nutritional deprivation. These genes encode a tonoplast Na+/H+-antiporter (SeNHX1), a vacuolar H+-ATPase (SeVHA-A), two H+-PPases (SeVP1, SeVP2), a hkt1-like transporter (SeHKT), a vinorine synthase (SeVinS), a peroxidase (SePerox), and a plasma membrane Na+/H+-antiporter (SeSOS1). Other genes encoding an amino acid permease (SeAAP) and a proline transporter (SeProT) demonstrated marginal or dispersing salinity influence, suggesting their nuanced regulation during plants development. Notably, osmoregulatory genes (SeOsmP, SeProT) were upregulated in mature plants, highlighting their role in salinity adaptation. This study reveals distinct regulatory mechanisms in S. europaea for coping with varying salinity levels. Identifying and understanding physiological reactions and sodium responsive key genes further elucidate the relationship between sodium tolerance and the obligate sodium requirement as a nutrient in euhalophytes.
Association of quality of life with marital satisfaction, stress, and anxiety in middle-aged women
Authors: Rakhshani Tayebeh , Amirsafavi Masoumeh , Motazedian Nasrin , Harsini Pooyan Afzali , Kamyab Amirhossein , Jeihooni Ali Khani
Published: September 2024

Background

Marital satisfaction is one of the important components of quality of life. Women’s marital satisfaction is affected when they enter the middle age period, due to the mental and emotional tensions caused by the physical changes. In this regard, the present study aimed to investigate the association of quality of life with marital satisfaction, stress, and anxiety in middle-aged women referring to health centers of Ahvaz city, Iran.

Methods

This cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 1,000 middle-aged married women (30–59 year of age) under the auspices of health centers of Ahvaz city, Iran in 2019. The subjects were selected by simple random sampling method, and were asked to complete demographic characteristics, quality of life questionnaire, Enrich marital satisfaction questionnaire, Holmes-Raheh stress questionnaire, and Spielberger state–trait anxiety inventory. The data were analyzed by using SPSS 0.22 software through mean, standard deviation, frequency, Pearson correlation and regression (p = 0.05).

Results

Based on the results, 42.4% of the participants were between 40 and 50 years of age, 35.6% had a high school diploma, and 50% of them were housewives. Also, the results of Pearson’s correlation showed a positive and significant relationship between quality of life and marital satisfaction (r = 0.178) (p < 0.001). However, quality of life had a negative and significant relationship with anxiety (r = −0.552) (r < 0.001) and stress (r = −0.188) (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Given the positive and significant relationship between quality of life and marital satisfaction, appropriate trainings are highly recommended for couples to increase the quality of life and marital satisfaction of middle-aged women and thus strengthen the health of family and society.
The longitudinal study of the relationship between social participation pattern and depression symptoms in frail older adults
Authors: Liu Congqi , Zhou Ruihao , Peng Xilin , Chen Xudong , Xia Zhen , Wei Wei , Zhu Tao , Chen Guo
Published: September 2024

Background

Mental health challenges are encountered by frail older adults as the population ages. The extant literature is scant regarding the correlation between depressive symptoms and social participation among frail older adults.

Methods

This study is based on an analysis of data from China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) participants aged 60 and older who are frail. A frailty index (FI) was developed for the purpose of assessing the frailty level of the participants. Additionally, latent class analysis (LCA) was employed to classify the participants’ social engagement patterns in 2015 and 2018. The study used ordered logistic regression to examine the relationship between social participation type and depressive symptoms. We also used Latent Transition Analysis (LTA) methods to explore the impact of changes in social activity types on depressive symptoms after three years of follow-up in 2018. In addition, the response surface analysis (RSM) investigation explored the relationship among FI, depression, and social participation.

Results

A total of 4,384 participants completed the baseline survey; three years later, 3,483 were included in the follow-up cohort. The baseline survey indicates that female older adults in rural areas who are single, have lower incomes, shorter sleep durations, and lighter weights exhibited more severe depressive symptoms. Social participation patterns were categorized into five subgroups by LCA. The findings indicate that individuals classified as “board game enthusiasts” (OR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.47-0.82) and those as “extensive social interaction” (OR,0.67; 95% CI, 0.49-0.90) have a significantly lower likelihood of developing depressive symptoms compared to the “socially isolated” group. We also discovered that “socially isolated” baseline participants who transitioned to the “helpful individual” group after three years had significantly greater depressed symptoms (OR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.00-2.44). More social activity types and less FI are linked to lower depression in our study.

Conclusion

The results of the study emphasize the importance of social participation patterns and the number of social participation types in relation to the severity of depression among frail older adults individuals. This study’s findings may provide important insights for addressing depressive symptoms in frail older adults person.
Developing an evaluation model for urban tourism competitiveness: combining community construction and community service to foster sustainable development of cities
Authors: Zhao Yueyang , Shang Wenxuan , Qin Xiaochuan , Li Kaicheng
Published: September 2024

Introduction

This study aims to develop a comprehensive evaluation model for urban tourism competitiveness in China. Given China's transition into a mature tourist destination, there is a pressing need for a framework that can assess the effectiveness of its urban tourism strategies. The model presented in this study is designed to provide a holistic understanding of the factors influencing urban tourism competitiveness in the Chinese context.

Methods

The methodology employed in this study combines both qualitative and quantitative approaches. A modified version of Porter's Diamond Model serves as the primary framework, augmented by the IMD World Competitiveness Center: International Institute for Management Development (IMD) framework to incorporate social governance and environmental dimensions. To derive comprehensive scores for sustainable development, a linear weighted evaluation method was used, incorporating the coefficient of variation entropy weight method. This approach allows for a quantitative assessment of urban tourism competitiveness from 2008 to 2019.

Results

The key findings of the study reveal significant challenges within the current urban tourism landscape in China. These challenges include homogeneous competition, a lack of strategic management, and insufficient service quality. Furthermore, the study identifies the need for greater emphasis on sustainable tourism development, balancing economic benefits with the preservation of cultural and natural assets.

Discussion

Based on the findings, the study proposes several solutions to address the identified challenges. These solutions include creating boutique inland tourism routes, developing unique urban tourism brands, and enhancing regional cooperation and management practices. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of integrating community development and services into the evaluation model to foster sustainable tourism development. The proposed solutions offer actionable insights for policymakers and planners seeking to improve the competitiveness and sustainability of urban tourism in China.
Explanatory models and animal health-seeking behavior for East Coast fever in rural Kenya: an ethnographic study
Authors: Muthiru Ann W. , Muema Josphat , Mutono Nyamai , Thumbi S. M. , Bukachi Salome A.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Explanatory models of disease focus on individuals’ and groups’ understandings of diseases, revealing a disconnect between livestock keepers and animal health providers. Animal health providers rely on models grounded in their veterinary training and experience. At the same time, livestock keepers may construct models based on traditional knowledge and their lived experience with East Coast fever in their cattle herds. To better understand East Coast fever and develop more efficient management strategies, this ethnographic study used the explanatory models’ framework to provide a structured way for comprehending and contrasting different beliefs and understandings of East Coast fever as perceived by the livestock keepers across the different livestock production systems.

Method

Multiple data collection methods were employed, including unstructured observations, 30 in-depth interviews (IDIs), 18 focus group discussions (FGDs), and 25 key informant interviews (KIIs).

Results

Adult cattle, calves and sheep were perceived as susceptible to East Coast fever. However, there were varying perceptions of livestock susceptible to East Coast fever in the different livestock production systems. East Coast fever was attributed to multiple factors, including ticks, tsetse flies, mosquitos, birds, stagnant, dirty, or contaminated water, and livestock-wildlife interactions. However, some aspects were specific to the production system. Livestock keepers classified diseases based on observable signs, grouping diseases with similar signs under the same classification. Moreover, livestock keepers described different forms of East Coast fever ranging from treatable to fatal, which could be distinguished by the signs they presented. Self-treatment with drugs from the local agro-vet shops was the initial course of action during suspected cases of East Coast fever. Animal health practitioners were the last resort if self-treatment did not produce the desired outcome. Livestock keepers perceived avoidance of stagnant or contaminated water, tick control, and fencing as effective control measures for East Coast fever in their livestock herd. Very few livestock keepers were aware of an East Coast fever vaccine.

Discussion

Mechanistic explanations hold little significance in controlling East Coast fever. Instead, understanding and addressing livestock keepers’ beliefs regarding ECF is crucial for promoting behaviors that support interventions across different livestock production systems.
Resisting to Exist and the Subtle Invisible Protest: Six Solution Focused Tactics about Challenging Behaviour
Authors: Goldschmied Anita Z. , Holyoake Dean-David
Published: September 2024

According to Young Minds, ‘everyone gets angry sometimes’. Their website offers a number of de-escalating strategies, including staying calm, managing responses, and setting limits to help young people who most deem resistive. Yet, Young Minds are not alone because such logical advice is ubiquitous in the literature about challenging behaviour despite the fact that in our experience when faced with high states of arousal, most young people tend to act first and deal with the consequences later. It is not that they are stupid or non-caring, but they are human, capable of great feats as well as stupidity. The same is true for any claims that solution focused (SF) conversations can put right the several decades of psychological theory suggesting resistance requires logic and better cognition. By giving the correct thinking skills, young people will walk away from risk, avoid physical confrontation, handle challenging situations like logical thinkers, and generally discount that the process of growing up is part of the challenge. It is with this in mind that over recent years in our current SF practice (with staff group supervision), we have examined the concept of ‘resistance’ and how it can be put to use as a process of collaboration. To do this, we have revisited SF theory that preoccupied many of its pioneers during the 1980s and 1990s and attempted to make it useful for the early 2020s for professionals having conversations with young people, who, in traditional models, are labelled challenging. We want to introduce key differences of solution focused practice and how our research started to formulate a 6D-SF model (details, dynamics, dimensions, dispositions, dislocations, descriptions) for contemplating how groups of professionals relate to each other and are triggered by challenging behaviour. We do not claim to have proof, logic, or exactness on our side, but we are happy to suggest how our resistance mirrors what many of the staff teams feel and describe when working through their work.
A Multimode Fusion-Based Aviation Communication System
Authors: Qian Jingyi , Liu Min , Xia Feng , Bai Yunfeng , Ou Dongxiu , Kang Jinsong
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a new design for a multimode fusion communication system, aimed at tackling the complexities of modern aeronautical communication. The system integrates multiple communication technologies, such as ad hoc networking, 5G, BeiDou satellite, RTK positioning, and ADS-B broadcasting. This integration effectively solves the problem of increasing the size and weight of aviation communication equipment while also improving the efficiency and security of data communication. The study demonstrates that the implementation of this fusion communication system can lead to the development of more efficient and intelligent avionics equipment in the future, thereby offering robust technical support for flight safety.