bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil microbial CO2 fixation rate disparities with different vegetation at a representative acidic red soil experimental station in China
Authors: Long Chao , Liu Zuwen , Liu Renlu , Yin Li , Tan Fuxing , Wang Yian , He Genhe
Published: November 2024

Soil acidification poses a significant environmental challenge in China’s southern red soil regions, impacting the abundance of soil microbes and their capacity for carbon fixation. The effect of vegetation types on soil’s biological and abiotic components under acidification, and their regulatory role on the CO2 fixation mechanisms of soil autotrophic microorganisms, is difficult to examine. This gap in understanding constrains the assessment of the carbon fixation potential of red soils. To address this, indoor cultivation coupled with 13C stable isotope labeling was employed to evaluate the disparate abilities of autotrophic microorganisms to assimilate and store CO2 across five vegetation soils from the Qianyanzhou acidic red soil experimental station in China. Findings indicate that carbon fixation rates in these soils spanned from 4.25 to 18.15 mg C kg−1 soil d−1, with paddy field soils demonstrating superior carbon fixation capabilities compared to orchard, coniferous forest, broad-leaved forest, and wasteland soils. The 13C fixation rate in the 0–10 cm soil stratum surpassed that of the 10–30 cm layer across all vegetation types. High-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA, following cbbL gene purification and amplification, identified Bradyrhizobium, Azospirillum, Burkholderia, Paraburkholderia, and Thermomonospora as the predominant autotrophic carbon-fixing microbial genera in the soil. PERMANOVA analysis attributed 65.72% of the variance in microbial community composition to vegetation type, while soil depth accounted for a mere 8.58%. Network analysis of microbial co-occurrence suggested the soil microbial interactions and network complexity changed with the change of vegetation types. Additionally, multiple linear regression analysis pinpointed the Shannon index and soil organic carbon (SOC) content as primary influencers of carbon fixation rates. Structural equation modeling suggested that iron enrichment and acidification indirectly modulated carbon fixation rates by altering SOC and autotrophic bacterial diversity. This investigation shows the spatial dynamics and mechanisms underpinning microbial carbon fixation across varying vegetation types in southern China’s red soil regions.
Harnessing Pseudomonas spp. for sustainable plant crop protection
Authors: Alattas Hussain , Glick Bernard R. , Murphy Daniel V. , Scott Colin
Published: November 2024

This review examines the role of Pseudomonas spp. bacteria as biocontrol agents against crop diseases, focusing on their mechanisms of action, efficacy, and potential applications in sustainable agriculture. Pseudomonas spp., ubiquitous in soil ecosystems and root microbiomes, have attracted attention for their ability to suppress phytopathogens and enhance plant health through various mechanisms. These include direct competition for nutrients, production of antimicrobial compounds and volatile organic compounds, competition using type VI secretion systems, and indirect induction of systemic resistance. Our review shows that Pseudomonas strains effectively control a wide range of diseases across diverse plant species, with some strains demonstrating efficacy comparable to chemical fungicides. However, the review also highlights challenges in achieving consistent performance when using Pseudomonas inoculants under field conditions due to various biotic and abiotic factors. Strategies to optimize biocontrol potential, such as formulation techniques, application methods, and integration with other management practices, are discussed. The advantages of Pseudomonas-based biocontrol for sustainable agriculture include reduced reliance on chemical pesticides, enhanced crop productivity, and improved environmental sustainability. Future research directions should focus on understanding the complex interactions within the plant microbiome, optimizing delivery systems, and addressing regulatory hurdles for commercial deployment. This review underscores the significant potential of Pseudomonas spp. in sustainable crop protection while acknowledging the need for further research to fully harness their capabilities in agricultural systems.
Global characterization of GH11 family xylanases genes in Neostagonosporella sichuanensis and functional analysis of Nsxyn1 and Nsxyn2
Authors: Liu Lijuan , Li Chengsong , Liang Fang , Han Shan , Li Shujiang , Yang Chunlin , Liu Yinggao
Published: November 2024

Rhombic-spot disease, caused mainly by Neostagonosporella sichuanensis, significantly impacts the yield and quality of fishscale bamboo (Phyllostachys heteroclada). Xylanases are essential for pathogenic fungi infection, yet their specific functions in the physiology and pathogenicity of N. sichuanensis remain unclear. Here, we characterized three xylanase proteins with glycosyl hydrolase 11 domains from the N. sichuanensis SICAUCC 16–0001 genome and examined the function of Nsxyn1 and Nsxyn2. Purified Nsxyn1 and Nsxyn2 proteins displayed specific xylanase activity in vitro and induced cell death in Nicotiana benthamiana, independent of their enzymatic function. Both proteins possessed signal peptides and were confirmed as secreted proteins using a yeast secretion system. Subcellular localization revealed that Nsxyn1 and Nsxyn2 localized in both the cytoplasm and nucleus and can trigger cell death in N. benthamiana through Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transient transformation. qRT-PCR results showed notable upregulation of Nsxyn1 and Nsxyn2 during infection, with Nsxyn1 exhibiting an 80-fold increase at 15 days post-inoculation. Deletion of Nsxyn1 and Nsxyn2 in N. sichuanensis impaired xylan degradation, adaptation to osmotic and oxidative stress, and pathogenic full virulence. Deletion of Nsxyn1 notably slowed fungal growth and reduced spore production, whereas only a reduction in microconidial production was observed in Nsxyn2 mutants. Complementation of Nsxyn1 and Nsxyn2 only partially restored these phenotypic defects in the ∆Nsxyn1 and ∆Nsxyn2 mutants. These findings suggest that Nsxyn1 and Nsxyn2 contribute to N. sichuanensis virulence and induced plant defense responses, providing new insights into the function of xylanases in the interaction between fishscale bamboo and N. sichuanensis.
Abnormal eye movements: relationship with clinical symptoms and predictive value for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Qi Jing , Lian Tenghong , Guo Peng , He Mingyue , Li Jinghui , Li Jing , Luo Dongmei , Zhang Yanan , Huang Yue , Liu Gaifen , Zheng Zijing , Guan Huiying , Zhang Weijia , Yue Hao , Liu Zhan , Zhang Fan , Meng Yao , Wang Ruidan , Zhang Wenjing , Zhang Wei
Published: November 2024

Background

Abnormal eye movements occur at the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the characteristics of abnormal eye movements of patients with AD and their relationship with clinical symptoms remain inconsistent, and their predictive value for diagnosing and monitoring the progression of AD remains unclear.

Methods

A total of 42 normal controls, 63 patients with mild cognitive impairment due to AD (AD-MCI), and 49 patients with dementia due to AD (AD-D) were recruited. Eye movements were assessed using the EyeKnow eye-tracking and analysis system. Cognitive function, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and activities of daily living were evaluated using various rating scales, and correlation analyses and receiver operating characteristic curves were performed.

Results

Patients with AD exhibited increased number of offsets and offset degrees, prolonged offset duration, and decreased accuracy in lateral fixation; reduced accuracy, prolonged saccadic duration, and decreased velocity in prosaccade; decreased accuracy and corrected rate, prolonged corrected antisaccadic duration, and reduced velocity in antisaccade; and reduced accuracy and increased inhibition failures in memory saccade. Eye movement parameters were correlated with global cognition and the cognitive domains of memory, language, attention, visuospatial ability, execution function, and activities of daily living. Subgroup analysis indicated that the associations between eye movements and clinical symptoms in patients with AD were influenced by disease severity and history of diabetes. In the AD-D and AD with diabetes groups, these associations diminished. Nevertheless, the associations persisted in the AD-MCI and AD without diabetes groups. The areas under the curves for predicting AD, AD-MCI, and AD-D were 0.835, 0.737, and 0.899, respectively (all p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Patients with AD exhibit distinct patterns of abnormal eye movements. Abnormal eye movements are significantly correlated with global cognition, multiple cognitive domains, and activities of daily living. Abnormal eye movements have a considerable predictive value for the diagnosis and progression of AD.
Real-world experience of galcanezumab in the prevention of migraine in Spain: a systematic literature review
Authors: Pozo-Rosich Patricia , García-Azorín David , Díaz-Cerezo Silvia , Fernández-Montoya Julia , de Paz Héctor David , Núñez Mercedes
Published: November 2024

Introduction

In the context of migraine preventive therapy, new therapeutic modalities such as monoclonal antibodies targeting the calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor (CGRP) or ligand offer potential advantages over traditional preventive treatments.

Methods

This systematic literature review gathered recent real-world evidence from Spain on the use of galcanezumab, a CGRP-targeting treatment, in migraine patients. The review included observational studies in English or Spanish, published from August 2020 to August 2023, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and Cochrane guidelines.

Results

A total of 29 publications involving 2,592 Spanish adult patients were identified, reporting relevant information on clinical outcomes (treatment effectiveness and safety), treatment persistence and patterns (switching from other therapies and time to discontinuation and restart), and patient-reported outcomes (including satisfaction with treatment). The most frequently reported variables were related to the clinical effectiveness of galcanezumab, demonstrating a significant reduction in monthly migraine days and monthly headache days. Additionally, adverse impact of headache per HIT-6 (Headache Impact Test-6) and disability per MIDAS (Migraine Disability Assessment) also improve. Studies also showed that up to 12-month persistence to galcanezumab ranged from 76.8 to 59.8%. Serious adverse events were rare. None of the publications included health-related quality of life data, either generic or migraine-specific. One study highlighted that galcanezumab treatment would offer high patient satisfaction for people with migraine.

Conclusion

The real-world evidence on the use of galcanezumab treatment among the Spanish population shows that its effectiveness, persistence, safety, and impact on health burden align with findings from clinical trials and observational studies conducted in other countries. Future studies should incorporate health-related quality of life data to gain a more holistic understanding of this treatment’s impact.
Inhibition of midbrain cholinergic neurons impairs decision-making strategies during reversal learning
Authors: Kim Yuwoong , Gut Nadine K. , Shiflett Michael W. , Mena-Segovia Juan
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN) plays a role in coordinating complex behaviors and adapting to changing environmental conditions. The specific role of cholinergic neurons in PPN function is not well understood, but their ascending connectivity with basal ganglia and thalamus suggests involvement in adaptive functions.

Methods

We used a chemogenetic approach in ChAT::Cre rats to explore the specific contribution of PPN cholinergic neurons to behavioral flexibility, focusing on the adaptation to shifting reward contingencies in a Reversal Learning Task. Rats were first trained in a non-probabilistic reversal learning task, followed by a probabilistic phase to challenge their adaptive strategies under varying reward conditions.

Results

Motor functions were evaluated to confirm that behavioral observations were not confounded by motor deficits. We found that inhibition of PPN cholinergic neurons did not affect performance in the non-probabilistic condition but significantly altered the rats’ ability to adapt to the probabilistic condition. Under chemogenetic inhibition, the rats showed a marked deficiency in utilizing previous trial outcomes for decision-making and an increased sensitivity to negative outcomes. Logistic regression and Q-learning models revealed that suppression of PPN cholinergic activity impaired the adaptation of decision-making strategies.

Discussion

Our results highlight the role of PPN cholinergic neurons in dynamically updating action-outcome expectations and adapting to new contingencies. The observed impairments in decision-making under PPN cholinergic inhibition align with cognitive deficits associated with cholinergic dysfunction in neurodegenerative disorders. These findings suggest that cholinergic neurons in the PPN are essential for maximizing rewards through the flexible updating of behavioral strategies.
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation to improve prognosis in aggressive monomorphic epitheliotropic intestinal T-cell lymphoma
Authors: Min Gi-June , Oh Ye Eun , Jeon Youngwoo , Kim Tong Yoon , Kim Byung-Su , Kwag Daehun , Park Sung-Soo , Park Silvia , Yoon Jae-Ho , Lee Sung-Eun , Cho Byung-Sik , Eom Ki-Seong , Kim Yoo-Jin , Lee Seok , Kim Hee-Je , Min Chang-Ki , Lee Jong Wook , Cho Seok-Goo
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Monomorphic epitheliotropic intestinal T-cell lymphoma (MEITL) is a rare, aggressive subtype of primary gastrointestinal T-cell lymphoma. Owing to the absence of symptoms characteristic of MEITL, diagnosis can be challenging, and the low response rate to conventional chemotherapy leads to an abysmal prognosis. This study aimed to define the clinicopathologic characteristics of MEITL in Korea, evaluate the clinical outcomes of intensive chemotherapy with and without hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), and explore prognostic factors.

Methods

This single-center retrospective study examined the clinical data of 35 patients diagnosed with MEITL at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital from May 2012 to May 2023.

Results

We included 22 men and 13 women (median age: 59 years; range: 37–79 years). Many patients exhibited acute abdominal pain (n=23, 65.7%) related to bowel perforation (n=21, 60.0%). Most patients (30/35, 85.7%) underwent surgical intervention to diagnose MEITL, whereas only five were diagnosed via endoscopic evaluation. Of the 32 patients receiving first-line therapy, 4 died before assessment, 10 achieved a complete response (CR), 6 had a relapse, and 18 exhibited progressive disease (PD). Seven of 10 patients received upfront HSCT, either autologous (auto-HSCT, n=4) or allogeneic (allo-HSCT, n=3). All four patients on auto-HSCT died after relapse. All three patients who received allo-HSCT maintained a CR by the final follow-up. Three of 6 patients who relapsed and 13 of 18 exhibiting PD received salvage therapy; one patient on salvage auto-HSCT with cytokine-induced killer cell infusion has survived progression free. Salvage allo-HSCT was performed on 6 of 16 patients; among them, 2 achieved a CR, 2 died after relapse, and 2 died owing to septic shock while maintaining a CR. The remaining patients, who received salvage therapy without HSCT, mostly died owing to PD. The median overall survival was 12.1 months, and the median follow-up was 33.2 months. The 1- and 5-year overall survival was 50.9% and 13.3%, respectively.

Discussion

MEITL is an aggressive disease resistant to conventional therapy. Therefore, intensive chemotherapy followed by upfront allo-HSCT should be considered upon diagnosis. These findings underscore the need for novel therapeutic strategies and further investigation into optimizing treatment protocols for MEITL.
Dosimetric analysis of half-field-based VMAT with the deep inspiration breath-hold technique for left breast cancer patients following breast-conserving surgery
Authors: Wu Weiwei , Yin Hui , Liu Zhiwei , Liu Lipeng , Xiao Chengjian , Xiao Ying , Ding Jinquan , Zhang Qungui , Guo Hailiang
Published: November 2024

Objective

Compared the dosimetric characteristics of half-field-based VMAT and half-field-based IMRT for left breast cancer patients combined with deep inspiration breath-hold (DIBH) and free breathing (FB) techniques.

Methods

Twenty-one left breast cancer patients were included. Each patient underwent DIBH and FB CT scans, IMRT and VMAT plans in half-field beam mode for both breathing techniques, resulting in four plans: FB-IMRT (F-IMRT), FB-VMAT (F-VMAT), DIBH-IMRT (D-IMRT) and DIBH-VMAT (D-VMAT). The conformity index (CI), homogeneity index (HI), and the doses received at the heart, left anterior descending (LAD), left lung, right breast, and right lung, were compared among plans.The correlation between the difference in the volume of lung_L (ΔLVL) and the difference in the mean dose (ΔDmean) of lung_L under the DIBH and FB plans, the correlation between the difference in the heart-chest distance (ΔHCD) and the ΔDmean of the heart,LAD under the DIBH and FB plans.

Results

The D-VMAT plan lower lung_L V5 than both the F-IMRT and F-VMAT plans (p<0.05), The D-VMAT plan lower values for V10, V20, V30, and Dmean than did the other plans (p < 0.05). For the heart, the D-VMAT plan lower V5, V10, V20, and Dmean values than did the other plans (p < 0.05). The D1% and Dmax of the heart and the Dmax and Dmean of the LAD obtained with the D-VMAT plan were lower than those obtained with the F-IMRT and F-VMAT plans (p < 0.05). ΔHCD exhibited correlation with the ΔDmean of the LAD between the D-VMAT and F-IMRT plans and between the D-VMAT and F-VMAT plans (R = -0.765 and -0.774, respectively, p = 0.000).

Conclusion

the D-VMAT plan offered enhanced protection for OARs. The integration of the DIBH technique with half-field and VMAT technology in the D-VMAT plan offers a superior dose distribution.
Effect of melatonin on gut microbiome and metabolomics in diabetic cognitive impairment
Authors: Gao Ming , Li Jie , Han Xu , Zhang Beiyao , Chen Jinting , Lang Jiadong , Zhang Qiangqiang
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Diabetic cognitive impairment(DCI) presents as a central nervous complication of diabetes especially among aging population. Melatonin (MEL) is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammation effects in neuroprotective aspects. Recent evidence has demonstrated that the gut microbiome plays a key role in DCI by modulating cognitive function through the gut–brain crosstalk. MEL has been shown to modulate gut microbiota composition in diabetic model. However, the underlying mechanism through which the gut microbiome contributes to DCI remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the effect and mechanism of MEL in attenuating DCI in relation to regulating the gut microbiome and metabolomics.

Methods

Cognitive and memory function were assessed by the Morris water maze test, histopathological assessment of brain tissues, and immunoblotting of neuroinflammation and apoptosis. The levels of serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and Interleukin-18 (IL-18) were measured by enzyme-linked immunoassays to reflect the circulatory inflammation level.16S rRNA microbiome sequencing analysis was performed on control mice(db-m group), diabetic mice(db-db group) and MEL-treated diabetic mice(db-dbMEL group). Gut metabolites changes were characterized using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).

Results

Our study confirmed that MEL alleviated diabetes-induced cognition and memory dysfunction. MEL protected against neuroinflammation and apoptosis in hippocampus of db-db mice. MEL corrected the increased abundance of Bacteroides and Dorea and the reduced abundance of Prevotella in db-db mice. The vast majority of differential metabolites among the three groups were lipids and lipid-like molecules. MEL significantly restored the reduced levels of pyruvate and lactic acid.

Discussion

Our results supported the use of MEL as a promising therapeutic agent for DCI, in which the underlying mechanism may be associated with gut microbiome and metabolomics regulation.
Plant pest and disease lightweight identification model by fusing tensor features and knowledge distillation
Authors: Zhang Xiaoli , Liang Kun , Zhang Yiying
Published: November 2024

Plant pest and disease management is an important factor affecting the yield and quality of crops, and due to the rich variety and the diagnosis process mostly relying on experts’ experience, there are problems of low diagnosis efficiency and accuracy. For this, we proposed a Plant pest and Disease Lightweight identification Model by fusing Tensor features and Knowledge distillation (PDLM-TK). First, a Lightweight Residual Blocks based on Spatial Tensor (LRB-ST) is constructed to enhance the perception and extraction of shallow detail features of plant images by introducing spatial tensor. And the depth separable convolution is used to reduce the number of model parameters to improve the diagnosis efficiency. Secondly, a Branch Network Fusion with Graph Convolutional features (BNF-GC) is proposed to realize image super-pixel segmentation by using spanning tree clustering based on pixel features. And the graph convolution neural network is utilized to extract the correlation features to improve the diagnosis accuracy. Finally, we designed a Model Training Strategy based on knowledge Distillation (MTS-KD) to train the pest and disease diagnosis model by building a knowledge migration architecture, which fully balances the accuracy and diagnosis efficiency of the model. The experimental results show that PDLM-TK performs well in three plant pest and disease datasets such as Plant Village, with the highest classification accuracy and F1 score of 96.19% and 94.94%. Moreover, the model execution efficiency performs better compared to lightweight methods such as MobileViT, which can quickly and accurately diagnose plant diseases.
Evolutionary analysis of TIR- and non-TIR-NBS-LRR disease resistance genes in wild strawberries
Authors: Zhu Ni , Feng Yuxi , Shi Guangxin , Zhang Qihang , Yuan Bo , Qiao Qin
Published: November 2024

Introduction

NBS-LRR genes (NLRs) are the most extensive category of plant resistance genes (R genes) and play a crucial role in pathogen defense. Understanding the diversity and evolutionary dynamics of NLRs in different plant species is essential for improving disease resistance. This study investigates the NLR gene family in eight diploid wild strawberry species to explore their structural characteristics, evolutionary relationships, and potential for enhancing disease resistance.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive genome-wide identification and structural analysis of NLRs across eight diploid wild strawberry species. Phylogenetic analysis was performed to examine the relationships between TIR-NLRs (TNLs), Non-TIR-NLRs (non-TNLs), CC-NLRs (CNLs), and RPW8-NLRs (RNLs). Gene structures were compared, and gene expression was profiled across different NLR subfamilies. Additionally, in vitro leaf inoculation assays with Botrytis cinerea were performed to assess the resistance of various strawberry species.

Results

Our analysis revealed that non-TNLs constitute over 50% of the NLR gene family in all eight strawberry species, surpassing the proportion of TNLs. Phylogenetic analysis showed that TNLs diverged into two subclades: one grouping with CNLs and the other closely related to RNLs. A significantly higher number of non-TNLs were under positive selection compared to TNLs, indicating their rapid diversification. Gene structure analysis demonstrated that non-TNLs have shorter gene structures than TNLs and exhibit higher expression levels, particularly RNLs. Notably, non-TNLs showed dominant expression under both normal and infected conditions. In vitro leaf inoculation assays revealed that Fragaria pentaphylla and Fragaria nilgerrensis, which have the highest proportion of non-TNLs, exhibited significantly greater resistance to Botrytis cinerea compared to Fragaria vesca, which has the lowest proportion of non-TNLs.

Discussion

The findings of this study provide important insights into the evolutionary dynamics of NLRs in strawberries, particularly the significant role of non-TNLs in pathogen defense. The rapid diversification and higher expression levels of non-TNLs suggest their potential contribution to enhanced disease resistance. This research highlights the value of non-TNLs in strawberry breeding programs aimed at improving resistance to pathogens such as Botrytis cinerea.
The influence of transportation, social norms, cultural identity, and affective disposition in transnational media enjoyment
Authors: Wang Jing , Ye Qiqi , Shuai Zhiqiang , Wang Peifeng , Wang Yujie , Lin Changqing
Published: November 2024

Background

The globalization of the media market is forcing decision-makers to understand the psychological processes behind local audiences’ enjoyment of foreign TV dramas. Transportation is a well-established psychological theory and framework utilized to elucidate and anticipate audience engagement and enjoyment in the cognitive process of experiencing a narrative text. Although there is a substantial body of literature on transportation and media enjoyment, there is a noticeable absence of studies on the relationship between audiences being “transported” into the narrative world of TV dramas and, particularly, the pleasure audiences derive from interacting with media content within a cross-cultural acceptance context.

Method

The research employs a quantitative design, with responses collected from 353 students enrolled at a Malaysian public university. It aims to validate the influence of social norms, cultural identity, and affective disposition on narrative immersion while watching foreign TV dramas, as well as the subsequent enjoyment of media among local audiences.

Results

The results indicate that social norms, cultural identity, and affective disposition significantly influence transportation and enjoyment. Furthermore, the influence of cultural identity on social norms has a positive moderating effect on transportation.

Discussion

Storytelling that complies with social norms while offering new perspectives can maximally engage audiences, potentially altering their narrative cognition and deepening their immersion in fictional narratives. Cultural identity can shape audience perceptions and reactions to cross-cultural media consumption, ultimately influencing the degree to which audiences are drawn into the narrative. Furthermore, the audience’s emotional connection to characters in the narrative or to situations in the drama significantly influences the overall cognitive and immersion levels.
Impact of cognitive biases on environmental compliance risk perceptions in international construction projects
Authors: Chang Tengyuan , Du Yuxuan , Deng Xiaopeng , Wang Xianru
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This research explores the complex interplay between cognitive biases and Environmental Compliance Risk Perception (ECRP) in international construction projects. Understanding such a relationship is essential as it can have significant implications for the success and environmental sustainability of these projects.

Methods

This study analyzed a scenario-based questionnaire survey conducted with 270 international construction practitioners. It employed Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to identify the influencing factors of cognitive biases and their impact on ECRP. The factors considered included individual, organizational, and project-specific aspects.

Results

The analysis revealed that Cultural Bias (CuB), Confirmation Bias (CoB), and Short-Termism (ST) significantly influence ECRP. These biases are affected by a complex interplay of the aforementioned antecedents.

Discussion

Based on the results, an innovative framework for evaluating ECRP was proposed. Additionally, a management strategy was developed to recognize and mitigate the cognitive biases of professionals during the bidding and execution phases of international construction projects. By clarifying the factors influencing cognitive biases and their complex relationship with ECRP, this research emphasizes the importance of addressing employee cognitive biases in conjunction with improving environmental awareness in environmental compliance management. It fills a crucial gap in the existing literature and offers international contractors strategies to reduce these biases, thereby enhancing their environmental protection capabilities and minimizing potential negative environmental impacts from international construction projects, which is vital for advancing sustainable development.
The duality of hope and challenges: a phenomenological study of first-year university students’ experiences in South Africa
Authors: Mason Henry D.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

In South Africa, access to higher education is viewed as a pathway to improved life chances. However, the transition from school to university is a stressful experience for students, marked by significant challenges. Although literature acknowledges these challenges, limited research has focused specifically on the role of hope during this period. Additionally, previous studies on hope have often utilized individualistic approaches, which may not fully capture the experience of students in collectivist cultures. This study addresses this gap by exploring hope from a culturally sensitive perspective within a collectivist context, aiming to understand how first-year South African university students experience hope during the transition to university.

Methods

This study employed Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to explore the lived experiences of hope among first-year South African university students during their transition to higher education. Twenty-two students participated in semi-structured interviews, allowing for an in-depth examination of their personal and cultural perspectives on hope and the challenges they faced. The data were analyzed iteratively, with strategies implemented to enhance trustworthiness and credibility, ensuring a thorough interpretation of students’ experiences.

Results

The analysis yielded three main themes: (1) Affective and Social Duality: Students described mixed emotions and social challenges as they entered university, highlighting the dual nature of their experiences in adapting to a new environment. (2) Hope as a Multifaceted Concept: Hope was portrayed as a guiding force that helped students navigate periods of uncertainty. Participants described hope not just as a single idea but as a complex, evolving concept crucial to their resilience. (3) Beyond Academic Aspirations: Hope extended beyond academic success and was closely tied to personal fulfilment and the desire to contribute positively to society. This broader perspective on hope suggests that students’ aspirations were not confined to individual achievement but also included a sense of collective and societal impact.

Discussion

The study reveals that hope is a multidimensional construct that significantly influences students’ transitional experiences, extending beyond academic goals to include personal growth and societal contributions. This finding challenges the traditional, individualistic approaches to studying hope by highlighting the cultural relevance of collectivist values in shaping students’ experiences. The study underscores the need for culturally sensitive research and suggests that student support services should consider cultural contexts to address students’ unique challenges and aspirations better. Future research is recommended to explore hope across various cultural backgrounds to gain a more comprehensive understanding of its role in student development.
Validation and measurement invariance of the Langer mindfulness scale: the Turkish version
Authors: Uysal Saraç Menekşe , Yıldırım Yıldız , Eşici Hasan , Büyüköztürk Şener , Pagnini Francesco , Langer Ellen
Published: November 2024

Novel distinction drawing is an active process that characterizes mindfulness, which has been associated with an open, creative, and probabilistic mental state, as well as the ability to examine information from new perspectives. The literature review revealed a lack of measurement tools for assessing mindfulness from a social and cognitive perspective in Türkiye. In addition, the frequent use of the Langer Mindfulness Scale (LMS) in educational contexts and its adaptation into many languages highlights the need for a Turkish version of the scale. This study aims to validate the Turkish version of the 14-item LMS. The Turkish version’s factorial structure was tested using the results of confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), which confirmed a three-factor structure that included the engagement, novelty-producing, and novelty-seeking subscales. It was found that measurement invariance based on gender was provided by LMS scores. LMS Turkish version showed satisfying psychometric properties in terms of reliability. Additionally, convergent and discriminant validity were examined in this validation study to provide evidence for criterion-based validity. For this purpose, the relationships between Turkish LMS scores and variables such as positive and negative affect, openness to experiences, self-acceptance, self-defined humor, and health were analyzed. The results showed that self-defined humor, positive affect, openness to experience, and self-acceptance were significantly positively correlated with the Turkish LMS scores, while LMS scores exhibited a significant negative relationship with negative affect. These findings suggest that the Turkish version of the LMS, with its three dimensions, shows acceptable psychometric properties for assessing the state of mindfulness. The Turkish version of the LMS is expected to be used in socio-cognitive mindfulness research in the Turkish cultural context.
A policy brief: improving access and utilization of adolescent sexual and reproductive health services in Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Sidamo Negussie Boti , Abebe Kerbo Amene , Gidebo Kassa Daka , Wado Yohannes Dibaba
Published: November 2024

Background

Adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) is fundamental to the overall wellbeing and development of young people. In Southern Ethiopia, adolescents face significant barriers to accessing and utilizing ASRH services: they include limited information, pervasive cultural stigma, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. Addressing these barriers is critical to reducing unintended pregnancies, preventing sexually transmitted infections, and achieving national and international health objectives. Despite the existence of policies aimed at improving ASRH, these challenges persist, highlighting the urgent need for targeted policy reforms and effective implementation strategies to ensure a healthier future for adolescents in the region.

Main findings

Recent research has identified substantial barriers to ASRH services in Southern Ethiopia. Key challenges include widespread gaps in knowledge, socio-cultural stigma, and strong influences from family and peers, compounded by limited service availability. The absence of adolescent-friendly care, coupled with insufficient outreach efforts, further restricts access. Healthcare providers also encounter significant obstacles, such as stigma, inadequate training, and a lack of institutional support, which undermine their ability to deliver effective services. Service utilization varies markedly based on geographic location, economic status, and educational attainment, with approximately half of adolescents lacking a comprehensive understanding of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Moreover, persistent stigma, low levels of social support, and limited self-efficacy continue to hinder the uptake of these essential services.

Policy implications

To improve ASRH services in Southern Ethiopia, a multi-faceted approach is imperative. Increasing public education through school programs and awareness campaigns can mitigate stigma and misinformation, fostering a more supportive environment. Initiatives such as providing transportation support and establishing mobile health clinics will significantly improve access for adolescents in underserved areas. Strengthening healthcare services by offering specialized training for providers and establishing adolescent-friendly clinics will elevate the quality of care. Engaging families, communities, and peer networks is essential for building a supportive framework that encourages adolescents to utilize SRH services. Finally, implementing skill-building and counseling programs will empower adolescents to make informed decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive health, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes across the region.
Configurational analysis of ovarian cancer incidence in 30 provinces of China and its policy implications: a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis approach
Authors: Shen Ying , Huang Zhenyu , Li Chan
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Ovarian cancer is one of the three most common gynecological cancers, with the highest mortality rate among gynecological malignancies. Previous studies on the environmental and socioeconomic (ESE) factors that affect ovarian cancer incidence (OCI) have generally only considered the net effects of single variables, while the synergistic effects among multiple factors have yet to be explored.

Methods

Based on a sample of 30 provinces in Mainland China, an ESE configuration model was constructed in this study, using a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis approach to empirically explore the configuration effects of multiple ESE factors on OCI.

Results

(1) Education, marriage, income, insurance, urbanization, and environment alone do not constitute the necessary conditions for high or low OCI, indicating a need to comprehensively consider the configuration effects of these six conditions. (2) There are two configurations for high OCI: “configuration of environmental pollution under low socioeconomic development” and “configuration of insurance deficiency under high socioeconomic development.” (3) There are two configurations for low OCI: “configuration of insurance adequacy under low socioeconomic development” and “configuration of insurance adequacy under low urbanization.”

Conclusion

The main contribution of this study is its focus on the configuration mechanism of ESE factors, enhancing understanding of the synergistic effects among the multiple factors that affect OCI. The study also provides valuable policy implications for decision-makers to formulate comprehensive health policies for the prevention and treatment of ovarian cancer.
Rapid methods for multi-level dissemination of neutralizing monoclonal antibody treatment for COVID-19 outpatients: designing for dissemination using the fit to context framework
Authors: Kwan Bethany M. , Sobczak Chelsea , Fish Lindsey E. , Ginde Adit A. , Grant Gillian , Hamer Mika K. , Leggott Kyle , Owen Vanessa , Reno Jenna , Shrader Justin , Whittington Lindsey , Jones Jenn L. , Koren Ramona , Begay Joel A. , Vinaithirthan Vall , Lum Hillary D.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an urgent need for the rapid and equitable translation of knowledge and effective treatments to reach vulnerable populations in response to the ever-shifting pandemic environment. The approval of neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for treatment of outpatient COVID-19 resulted in a need to rapidly design dissemination strategies to increase awareness and equitable access for community members and healthcare providers.

Materials and methods

We used the Fit to Context (F2C) Framework for Designing for Dissemination and Sustainability to (a) design products such as messages and materials, and (b) disseminate the products. We leveraged existing partnerships (e.g., community members, health system leaders, Regional Health Connectors, public health agencies, policymakers, and others) for activities including (a) advising on contextual implementation challenges and opportunities; (b) convening a stakeholder advisory panel; (c) rapid feedback on product reach and impact; and (d) serving as potential product adopters and distributors. We used concurrent data collection and co-design with rapid, iterative prototyping. We used real-world data to evaluate impact of D&I strategies on mAb use in Colorado.

Results

Moving through the F2C Framework phases, we assessed mAb implementation and access barriers and facilitators, identified partner priorities, co-designed messages and materials for multiple audiences, and disseminated through audience-specific communication channels. An emphasis on equity led to tailoring materials to communities with lower health literacy, under- and uninsured groups, Spanish-speaking communities, Native American communities, and rural areas. Dissemination messages, materials, and distribution strategies were updated frequently based on emerging data on COVID-19 treatment effectiveness and availability. Real-world data revealed more than 400% increase in both referrals and number of unique referring providers, with the greatest impact on underserved communities. This was accomplished in under 9 months.

Conclusion

The Fit to Context Framework for Designing for Dissemination and Sustainability is a novel process framework that can inform a rapid, iterative dissemination strategy. The COVID-19 pandemic presented an opportunity to learn better ways to speed translation of evidence to practice and enhance equitable access to evidence-based care. The mAb Colorado project demonstrated the importance of having strong community-academic-public health partnerships and leveraging existing capacity to enhance adoption and reach.
Health economic evaluation of structured education programs for patients with diabetes: a systematic review
Authors: Ye Caihua , Zhou Qiwei , Yang Wenfei , Tao Libo , Jiang Xinjun
Published: November 2024

Background

Diabetes structured education programs have been demonstrated to effectively improve glycemic control and self-management behaviors. However, evidence on the health economic evaluation of these programs is limited.

Objectives

To systematically review the health economic evaluation of structured education programs for patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

The English databases PUBMED, WEB OF SCIENCE, OVID, COCHRANE LIBRARY, EMBASE, and EBSCO, along with the Chinese databases CNKI, WANFANG, VIP, and SINOMED, were searched from their inception to September 2024. The quality of the literature was assessed using the CHEERS 2022 checklist. A descriptive analysis was performed on the studies included in the review, with all currencies converted to international dollars. An incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of less than one times the per capita GDP was considered highly cost-effective, while a ratio between one and three times the per capita GDP was considered cost-effective.

Results

A total of 28 studies from upper-middle-income and high-income countries were included. The average quality score of the included studies was 18.6, indicating a moderate level of reporting quality. Among these, eleven studies demonstrated that diabetes structured education programs were highly cost-effective and twelve were found to be cost-effective. In contrast, three studies were deemed not cost-effective, and two studies provided uncertain results. The ranges of the incremental cost-effectiveness ratios for short-term, medium-term, and long-term studies were − 520.60 to 65,167.00 dollars, −24,952.22 to 14,465.00 dollars, and −874.00 to 236,991.67 dollars, respectively.

Conclusion

This study confirms the cost-effectiveness of structured education programs for diabetes and highlights their importance for patients with type 2 diabetes who have HbA1c levels exceeding 7% and are receiving non-insulin therapy. Additionally, the potential advantages of incorporating telecommunication technologies into structured diabetes education were emphasized. These findings offer valuable insights and guidance for decision-making in diabetes management and clinical practice, contributing to the optimization of medical resource allocation and the improvement of health status and quality of life for patients.
Knowledge of health risks, safety practices, acute pesticide poisoning, and associated factors among farmers in rural irrigation areas of northeastern Ethiopia
Authors: Keleb Awoke , Ademas Ayechew , Abebe Masresha , Berihun Gete , Desye Belay , Bezie Anmut Endalkachew
Published: November 2024

Background

Pesticide exposure is a major public health issue among farmers affecting make it their health, economic stability, and agricultural productivity. This study aimed to investigate the magnitude and determinants of farmers’ knowledge of health risks, safety practices, and acute pesticide poisoning in the South Wollo Zone, Ethiopia.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the South Wollo Zone’s irrigation areas from July to August 2022. Using a multistage sampling technique, five out of ten irrigation districts were randomly selected, and three kebeles (the smallest administrative unit) from each district (15 total) were chosen based on intensive irrigation activities. A proportional sample size was allocated across the selected kebeles according to the number of farmers. Trained data collectors conducted face-to-face interviews using a pretested structured questionnaire. Crude and adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals at a p-value of 0.05 identified statistically significant factors.

Result

The study found that 55.2% of farmers had below mean knowledge of health risks, 63.7% practiced below mean safety practices, and 47.9% experienced acute pesticide poisoning. Significant factors for below mean knowledge included no formal education (AOR = 2.32; 95% CI: 1.27–4.23) and lack of pesticide training (AOR = 2.07; 95% CI: 1.33–3.21). Below mean safety practices were associated with age > 47 years (AOR = 2.07; 95% CI: 1.06–4.04), below mean retailer actions (AOR = 1.97; 95% CI: 1.34–2.89), and below mean attitude (AOR = 1.79; 95% CI: 1.23–2.62). Acute pesticide poisoning was significantly associated with over 10 years of exposure (AOR = 4.34; 95% CI: 2.55–7.39), below mean knowledge (AOR = 2.17; 95% CI: 1.23–2.62), lack of training (AOR = 3.73; 95% CI: 2.33–5.98), and below mean safety practices (AOR = 4.40; 95% CI: 2.86–6.78).

Conclusion

Farmers’ knowledge of health risks and safety practices was not satisfactory. Low educational status, lack of training, and minimal government involvement were associated with below mean knowledge. Below mean knowledge and below mean safety practices, low education, lack of training, and minimal government involvement were associated with acute pesticide poisoning. Young farmers, limited retailer involvement, and below mean attitudes contribute to unsafe practices.