bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geopolitical risks and tourism industry interactions: Evidence from tokens and equity markets
Authors: Gunay Samet , Kirimhan Destan , Payne James E
Published: June 2024

Geopolitical risk can have an impact on investment behavior and rates of return. We explore the time-varying relation between the daily geopolitical risks index (GPRD) and tourism market. We use tourism tokens (TTI) and tourism equity market indices (WHRL) as proxies of the tourism industry. Results from DCC-GARCH analysis depict weak co-movements between GPRD-TTI and GPRD-WHRL pairs. However, concerning time-varying Granger causality, the GPRD-WHRL pair exhibited longer periods of a significant relationship along with bidirectional causality during the Russia-Ukraine war, whereas the COVID-19 pandemic’s effect was weak in both pairs. Spillovers identified through Q-VAR analysis revealed more pronounced effects of GPRD on each variable during both market events, albeit with a more apparent and stronger influence on WHRL. These findings suggest that the cryptocurrency market may not consistently and effectively incorporate geopolitical risk factors, whereas equity markets demonstrate a greater capacity to capture and respond to such risk factors.
Video-on-demand catalog and interface analysis: The state of research methods
Authors: Lobato Ramon , Scarlata Alexa , Wils Tyson
Published: June 2024

The global proliferation of internet-distributed video-on-demand (VOD) services has left in its wake a rich but scattered corpus of research into the catalogs and interfaces of these services. Using empirical methods and sources including scraping, observation, digital simulations, and third-party datasets, researchers have found many ways to study VODs, their content, and their recommendations. Our article provides a critical review of this research landscape. We describe the evolution of two key methods: catalog analysis and interface analysis. We then explain how these methods intersect with each other and also with audience research. Throughout, we assess the value and limitations of various methods, showing how they fit within a wider research landscape that involves multiple ‘ways of knowing’ VOD. The practicalities and politics of access to VOD data are considered throughout.
Vocabulary card learning: Testing multilingual translations and increased semantic processing
Authors: Deuber Fabienne , Berthele Raphael
Published: June 2024

Vocabulary card learning stands out as one of the most efficient methods for memorizing a large number of words in a short period of time. Multilinguals have the possibility to use their multilingual repertoire to their advantage when learning new words, for example in the acquisition of formally overlapping words. This study aims to answer the as-yet unexplored question of whether the use of bilingual translations in vocabulary cards can provide advantages for multilinguals when learning vocabulary even in a linguistically distant language. Furthermore, predictions based on the ‘type of processing – resource allocation’ (TOPRA) model regarding trade-offs through semantic processing are taken into consideration. In this study, traditional vocabulary card learning is compared to two further elaborated learning tasks which included multilingual translations. In a 3 × 3-within-participant design, 72 participants learned 60 Estonian nouns in three conditions: (1) monolingual: one translation in the participant’s dominant language, (2) bilingual: two translations in the participant’s two strongest languages, and (3) multilingual semantic+: one translation in the dominant language including the instruction to retrieve the meaning of the Estonian word in any other known language. The dependent measures were immediate and delayed L2–L1 cued-recall post-tests and efficiency (ratio of learning performance to learning time). The results show that the monolingual condition significantly outperforms the two other conditions in all recall tests. In terms of efficiency, however, the monolingual condition only significantly outperforms the multilingual semantic+ condition. The comparison between the bilingual and the multilingual semantic+ condition shows descriptively (but not statistically significant) better performance for the bilingual condition.
‘Let me tell you what I believe’: Narratives, storytelling and ethos building, the case of Tory leaders (2005–2023)
Authors: Bonnet Alma-Pierre
Published: June 2024

This article proposes a critical narrative analysis of the way recent Conservative leaders have used storytelling to talk about themselves and reinforce their political ethos during the annual party conferences. We will use David Cameron’s transformative tenure as a starting point, as he tried to usher in a new Conservative creed, more compassionate and voluntarily different from Thatcherism. We will then see how his successors have also resorted to narratives to establish a strong political ethos. The main objective of the article is to examine the evolution of the image of the Conservative leader and to assess the role storytelling has played in this important communicational process.
Dynamic analysis of extensible beam with multiple cracks
Authors: Shon Sudeok , Ha Junhong , Gutman Semion
Published: June 2024

We present the governing equation and study vibrations of multiple crack beams undergoing large deflections subject to transverse loads. First, the primary motion equation is derived using Hamilton’s principle applied to energy functions accounting for cracks. Then we derive a normalized equation governing the vibration of the extensible cracked beam. Single and multiple crack beam examples are considered and analyzed numerically to verify the validity of the derived equations. We propose a modified cracked extensible beam model accounting for the axial force by considering the reduced cross-sectional area. It is expressed by a new reduction parameter. Using the proposed model, we numerically investigate how the cracked extensible beam’s natural frequencies change depending on various model parameters.
Achieving internal legitimacy and job satisfaction in UK and US multinational corporation subsidiaries in Nigeria: Do acculturation strategies matter?
Authors: Obi-Anike Happiness Ozioma , Imhanrenialena Benedict Ogbemudia , Daniel Ogohi Cross , Taleb Taleb S T
Published: June 2024

The ever-increasing organizations’ quest for multinational investments despite cross-border tensions and cultural diversity in the international business environment necessitates acculturation research. This research aims to determine the nature of acculturation strategies adopted among local workers in UK and US MNCs’ subsidiaries in Nigeria and how the acculturation strategies relate to internal legitimacy and job satisfaction among the workers. Utilizing a quantitative research design, the study uses a structured questionnaire to draw data from 454 Nigerians working in UK and US multinational corporations’ subsidiaries in Nigeria. The research finds that Nigerian workers in UK and US MNCs’ subsidiaries in Nigeria predominantly adopt the integrated acculturation strategy. The study further finds that the integration strategy significantly results in internal legitimacy and job satisfaction among the local workers. Contrary to expectations, assimilation, separation, and marginalization acculturation strategies insignificantly relate to internal legitimacy and job satisfaction. We highlighted the acculturation strategy the UK and US MNC subsidiaries in Nigeria can use to achieve internal legitimacy and job satisfaction among local employees.
CEO moral foundations and firms’ environmental, social, and governance performance
Authors: Ng Eunice SQ , Phang Riyang , Kang Eugene
Published: June 2024

We examine the impact of CEOs’ moral foundations—innate source of moral intuitions—on firms’ environmental, social, and governance performance. Using a linguistic technique on unscripted texts spoken by 1860 CEOs of S&P 1500 firms over 5 years, we found that CEOs with higher binding moral foundations (i.e., focus on expectations of key stakeholder groups) are associated with lower environmental, social, and governance performance. In contrast, we found that CEOs with higher individualizing moral foundations (i.e., focus on well-being of individuals in general) are associated with higher environmental, social, and governance performance. Our study contributes to the upper echelons theory by providing evidence that CEO morality matters for environmental, social, and governance outcomes. We add to moral foundations theory by showing that a bi-dimensional lens on CEO’s morality (i.e., binding vs individualizing) reveals nuances on environmental, social, and governance outcomes.
Dimensional stability of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) parts fabricated using fused deposition modelling (FDM)
Authors: Johar Munirah , Rosli Amirah Azwani , Shuib Raa Khimi , Abdul Hamid Zuratul Ain , Abdullah Muhammad Khalil , Ku Ishak Ku Marsilla , Rusli Arjulizan
Published: June 2024

The dimensional accuracy of a 3D printed part produced using Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is an important issue. In this work, polylactic acid (PLA) parts were produced using FDM at different platform temperatures. The dimensional stability of the parts was assessed by measuring the shrinkage, warpage and layer thicknesses of the parts. A sample of four different blades for warpage, two samples with different shapes and parts with fixed contact surface area but different heights were printed at a fixed nozzle temperature of 210°C while platform temperatures were varied from 60°C to 80°C. Deformation angles of the blades decreased with increasing platform temperature suggesting lower warpage due to the enhanced capability to dissipate thermal stress. Meanwhile, shrinkage decreased as platform temperature increased irrespective of the shape of the sample due to the lower temperature difference between platform and nozzle temperature leading to lower thermal contraction. However, a thin sample tends to shrink more compared with a thick sample with bigger differences at higher platform temperatures. No significant trend in density were observed on samples of different height with increasing platform temperature due to competing effects of increasing crystallinity that would increase the density and increasing layer contraction that would increase porosity as shown by the variation in the thickness of the top and the bottom layers of the samples and the formation of voids.
Evaluation of Health Education Events With a Peer-to-Peer Component in Public High Schools
Authors: Metzger Tai , Zepeda Alex , Wilcox Naomi
Published: June 2024

Despite many improvements in childhood health outcomes, many children experience chronic health conditions and engage in unhealthy behaviors that can negatively affect the rest of their lives. School-based health education is one strategy to promote healthier lifestyles among children. Although health education is very prevalent in the United States, the methods used for this education are not well studied. Health education events such as voluntary tabling events (booths) were held by peer student educators and adult allies from the LA Trust for Children’s Health. This program evaluation studied the effects of voluntary peer-to-peer health education tabling events and a more traditional mandatory school-based health presentation. We analyzed survey responses from 343 high school students who attended 19 health education events at 8 public high schools in Los Angeles County. The results showed that health education tabling events at schools were viewed positively by students, allowing the vast majority to report learning useful information. The impact of the tabling events varied somewhat between grade levels and health topics. These findings can assist schools, health organizations, and health care providers in tailoring their programming to better disseminate health education materials and information, as well as understanding which health topics are interesting to students.
Online early warning method for motorized-spindle degradation without failure data
Authors: Li Hai , Zhang Chuandong
Published: June 2024

Early warning for the performance degradation of motorized-spindle can effectively prevent machine tool failure and improve machining accuracy and production efficiency. This study proposes an online motorized-spindle early warning method without failure data. First, vibration data are collected and then processed by a Butterworth band-stop filter algorithm. Second, the idle condition of motorized-spindle can be identified online based on the frequency match strategy. Subsequently, an early warning method is proposed to obtain an appropriate first degradation time (FDT). Finally, experimental results show that the idle condition identification accuracy is 99.16% and FDT identification error is 0.61%, which indicates that the proposed method can obtain accurate early warning results of motorized-spindle without failure data.
Potassium-competitive acid blockers and proton-pump inhibitors for healing of erosive esophagitis: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Yin , Gao Zhifeng , Hou XiaoHua
Published: June 2024

Background:

Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) and potassium-competitive acid blockers (P-CABs) are recommended for erosive esophagitis (EE), with good safety and tolerance. However, it is unclear which is the best treatment option for EE.

Objectives:

This study aimed to evaluate the comparative efficacy of P-CABs and PPIs for healing EE patients, seeking an appropriate treatment choice in the 4- or 8-week treatment and standard or double dose.

Design:

A systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Data sources and methods:

Relevant databases were searched to collect randomized controlled trials of PPIs and P-CABs in the treatment of EE up to 31 May 2023. Studies on standard or double-dose PPIs or P-CABs which were published in English and assessed 4- or 8-week healing effects in EE were included. A network meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the efficacy of the treatments under the frequentist framework. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses of patients with different baseline EE were also conducted.

Results:

In all, 34 studies involving 25,054 patients and 9 PPIs, 6 P-CABs, or placebo treatment interventions were included. The pooled 4-week healing rate was significantly statistically lower than the pooled 8-week healing rate for most treatments. Besides, the higher healing rate of double-dose treatment than standard-dose treatment was not observed in the initial treatment of most drugs. The main analysis only included studies conducted for both patients with and without severe EE at baseline, and the proportion of severe EE included in the study was >10%, Keverprazan 20 mg qd ranked best with a surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) value of 84.7, followed by Ilaprazole 10 mg qd with a SUCRA value of 82.0, for the healing rate at 8 weeks. Sensitivity analysis showed that the results were robust. Subgroup analysis showed that most P-CABs had higher healing rates than PPIs, particularly for patients with severe EE. And the healing rate of Keverprazan 20 mg qd at 8 weeks ranked best in the subgroup without or with severe EE at baseline.

Conclusion:

This study showed that an 8-week treatment seemed more effective than the 4-week treatment for healing EE patients. The healing effect of Keverprazan (20 mg qd) ranked best in 8-week treatment, for both severe and non-severe EE patients.

Trial registration:

The study protocol was registered with INPLASY (registration number INPLASY2023120053).
Integrating social media for teacher training: Learners’ acceptance to the new normal
Authors: Singh Gaurav
Published: June 2024

The study aimed to determine the learners’ receptiveness to the incorporation of social media into the conventional Open and distant learning delivery method. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the researcher has incorporated diverse online educational tools alongside Facebook Live as a crucial element to connect with training teachers. The experiment was carried out in two rounds using an online platform. Every phase consists of a 12-days online program. The inaugural workshop was concluded in November 2020, and the subsequent session was arranged in January 2021. A total of 13,200 learners have received training, and feedback was obtained from them after the workshops through the use of Google Forms. A total of ten thousand three hundred learners, which is the sum of 6073 and 4227, have submitted their feedback. After examining the feedback on several aspects, the researcher has determined that online teaching and learning have become the prevailing standard, and teacher trainees have embraced it with a good attitude. There is a growing need for online counselling and workshops, as well as increased opportunities for engagement with teachers. Conferencing platforms such as Google MEET and ZOOM can be seamlessly integrated with streaming services like Facebook Live to efficiently meet the requirements of a wide range of learners. Online technologies for teacher training programs are widely accepted. Online teaching-learning should be a fundamental element in all teacher training programs. Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU’s) experiences indicate that practical components like as internships, school-based activities, and workshops can be effectively conducted online. The academic counselling components of traditional Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programs should also be implemented via online methods.
Coronal Deformity is Associated With Uptake on Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography in Patients With Low Back Pain
Authors: Dharia Anand A. , Guillotte Andrew R. , De Stefano Frank A. , Birney Mia J. , Rouse Adam G. , Ohiorhenuan Ifije E.
Published: June 2024

Study Design

Retrospective Cohort Study.

Objective

Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography/Computed Tomography (SPECT/CT) is emerging as a valuable imaging test for identifying pain generators within the lumbar spine. The relationship between radiotracer uptake on SPECT/CT and anatomic biomechanical parameters has not been previously studied.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of all patients seen at our institution between 2021-2023 who obtained SPECT/CT scans for workup of thoracolumbar back pain. Patient data including demographic, clinical symptoms, and surgical history were collected. Radiology reports were reviewed for evidence of pathologic degeneration and increased bone metabolism on SPECT/CT. Biomechanical parameters were measured from standing scoliosis plain radiographs. Patients were stratified into two cohorts by either presence or absence of asymmetric coronal uptake on SPECT/CT.

Results

160 patients met inclusion criteria. Patients were primarily male (55%) with average age 55 ± 15 years. 87 (54%) patients demonstrated asymmetric uptake on SPECT/CT. These patients were older ( P < 0.001), but with similar gender, prior fusion history, sacroiliitis, adjacent segment degeneration, and pseudoarthrosis ( P > 0.05). This cohort had more disc disease, facet arthropathy, and greater degree of coronal scoliosis and coronal imbalance ( P < 0.001). There were significantly more sites of uptake in the asymmetric cohort, and uptake was preferentially observed in the concavity of the lumbar curve ( P < 0.001). There were no significant differences in sagittal balance or spinopelvic mismatch between cohorts ( P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Asymmetric uptake on SPECT/CT was associated with coronal deformity in patients with low back pain. Further prospective studies are warranted to assess the effect of coronal deformity on pain generation.
Navigating the Skincare Journey: Analysing the Effectiveness of COSRX’s Global Marketing Strategy
Authors: Chhabhaiya Heta , Chandwan Jyoti , Purohit Megha
Published: June 2024

Cosmeceuticals are a brand-new product category that has emerged between pharmaceuticals and cosmetics to improve skin’s appearance and health. In the fiercely competitive global skincare market, brands increasingly struggle to navigate the complex customer journey and secure lasting brand loyalty. This research delves into the success story of COSRX, a South Korean skincare brand that carved a distinct niche by prioritising key objectives like revitalising local health and beauty stores and fostering customer satisfaction through a deeply engaged, data-driven digital marketing strategy. By examining these objectives through four key pillars––revitalising local partnerships, customer-centric approach, leveraging Amazon reviews and designing a compelling digital strategy––this paper offers valuable insights and actionable takeaways for brands navigating the ever-evolving landscape of skincare marketing.
Intersectional Earnings Inequalities in U.S. Public Sector Workplaces and the Great Recession
Authors: Tomaskovic-Devey Donald , Kerrissey Jasmine , Rainey Anthony , Boutcher Steven A.
Published: June 2024

The authors examine intersectional earnings inequalities in U.S. state and local government workplaces during the Great Recession of 2007 to 2011. Corresponding to closure and exploitation mechanisms as proposed in Relational Inequality Theory, the authors decompose pay gaps into between-workplace and within-workplace segregation components and within-job disparities. Between-workplace closure mechanisms tend to be absent or weak for all comparisons, but within-workplace occupational closure and within-job pay disparities are present for all and quite large for most groups. Within-job earnings inequalities tend to be largest for Black, Hispanic, and Native American women and smallest for Asian and Native American men. During the Great Recession, organizational resources to make claims on shrank, as low-wage job layoffs surged and resources contracted. This resulted in a shrinking of within-workplace and within-job, but rising between-workplace, inequalities.
Book review: Kunal Debnath, Caste, Marginalisation, and Resistance: The Politics of Identity of the Naths (Yogis) of Bengal and Assam
Authors: Bag Laboni
Published: June 2024

Kunal Debnath, Caste, Marginalisation, and Resistance: The Politics of Identity of the Naths (Yogis) of Bengal and Assam. Brill, Leiden and Boston, 2024, XIX+240 pp., ₹131.00 (hardback), ISBN: 978-90-04-68937-4, 978-90-04-68938-1 (e-book)
Is anticoagulative therapy in systemic sclerosis to be reconsidered?
Authors: Marongiu Francesco , Ruberto Maria Filomena , Barcellona Doris
Published: June 2024

Systemic sclerosis is a rare disease with a high mortality rate. It is a multisystem connective tissue disease due to endothelial autoimmune activation along with tissue and vascular fibrosis, inducing vasculopathy, with an angiogenesis wasting. The endothelial damage provokes platelet activation and immune cell adhesion. The detachment of endothelial cells leads to the interaction of platelets and collagen present in the exposed subendothelial layer. This provokes the activation of several coagulative factors, inducing a pro-thrombotic condition by thrombin generation, which converts fibrinogen into fibrin. Moreover, thrombin has other functions, such as the induction of hyperplasia in smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts, thereby favouring fibrosis. An increased risk of venous thromboembolism has been found in systemic sclerosis, whereas pulmonary hypertension may be due to the obstruction of small pulmonary arteries. Pulmonary veno-occlusive disease may also occur. Warfarin showed inconsistent results, while the outcomes of a randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trial on apixaban versus placebo are still awaited. A new anticoagulation strategy based on anti-factor XI drugs is being developed, with the aim of achieving optimal anticoagulation along with a low risk of bleeding. The molecule types under investigation in this category include monoclonal antibodies, small molecules, natural inhibitors, antisense oligonucleotides, and aptamers. Patients with systemic sclerosis may be ideal candidates for clinical trials planned to analyse the efficacy and safety of these molecules.
The Current State of Non-Invasive Measurement of Intracranial Pressure in Patients with Craniosynostosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Patel Viren , Lu Quan , Fodor R’ay , Patel Niyant
Published: June 2024

Introduction:

Despite being invasive, direct measurements remain the gold standard to measure intra-cranial pressure (ICP) in patients with craniosynostosis. However, there has been persistent effort to develop non-invasive modalities to measure ICP, possibly avoiding some of the risks of direct measurements. Here, we conduct a systematic review of the evidence behind various non-invasive modalities to monitor ICP in patients with craniosynostosis.

Methods:

A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases to identify studies describing the use of non-invasive ICP measurements in patients with craniosynostosis. Studies were included if they assessed a non-invasive method of ICP monitoring against a direct/invasive ICP monitoring technique in patients with craniosynostosis. Non-English and non-human studies were excluded.

Results:

A total of 735 studies were screened, of which 52 were included in the study. Nine methods of non-invasive ICP measurement were identified, with varying sensitivities and specificities in detecting elevated ICP. Specifically, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and ocular ultrasonography demonstrated ability to accurately measure ICP when compared to direct measurements.

Conclusion:

Here, we present the first systemic-review of the current literature surrounding non-invasive modalities to measure ICP in patients with craniosynostosis. While direct measurement remains the gold-standard, multiple reviewed modalities have shown promise in accurately measuring ICP. Of these, OCT has the most rigorous evidence supporting its use. Ocular sonography has also shown promise, albeit without as robust evidence supporting its use. Regardless, further investigation is required before any modality is able to obviate the need for invasive, direct measurements.
Community resilience placed at the service of the climate-migration-conflict nexus understanding
Authors: Casano Gabriele
Published: June 2024

In the frame of the so-called climate-migration-conflict nexus (CMCN), the potential correlation between these three dimensions has been widely explored. Furthermore, the literature calls for efforts to focus on responding to the impacts on society of this nexus through the development of forms of adaptation, mitigation and resilience. In particular, in the context of CMCN, the concept of community resilience has not received sufficient attention. More generally, this concept has not been the subject of homogeneous definitions such that it can be adequately operationalised in the analysis of CMCN. Bearing in mind the findings from CMCN research and referring to the existing literature on community resilience, we intend to make a theoretical contribution to the debate on this latter concept. The results will take the shape of an operational definition of community resilience that can also be applied in the context of CMCN. Consequently, this reflection may also contribute to overcoming the linear cause-effect approach that has been the subject of the majority of studies on CMCN, by taking into consideration a wider broader spectrum of geographical, political, social, cultural, demographic and economic variables.
Identifying trigger cues for hospital blood transfusions based on ensemble of machine learning methods
Authors: Zadorozny Eva V. , Weigel Tyler , Galvagno Samuel M. , Martin-Gill Christian , Brown Joshua B. , Guyette Francis X.
Published: June 2024

Background

Traumatic shock is the leading cause of preventable death with most patients dying within the first six hours from arriving to the hospital. This underscores the importance of prehospital interventions, and growing evidence suggests prehospital transfusion improves survival. Optimizing transfusion triggers in the prehospital setting is key to improving outcomes for patients in hemorrhagic shock. Our objective was to identify factors associated with early in-hospital transfusion requirements available to prehospital clinicians in the field to develop a simple algorithm for prehospital transfusion, particularly for patients with occult shock.

Methods

We included trauma patients transported by a single critical care transport service to a level I trauma center between 2012 and 2019. We used logistic regression, Fast and Frugal Trees (FFTs), and Bayesian analysis to identify factors associated with early in-hospital blood transfusion as a potential trigger for prehospital transfusion.

Results

We included 2,157 patients transported from the scene or emergency department (ED) of whom 207 (9.60%) required blood transfusion within four hours of admission. The mean age was 47 (IQR = 28 – 62) and 1,480 (68.6%) patients were male. From 13 clinically relevant factors for early hospital transfusions, four were incorporated into the FFT in following order: 1) SBP, 2) prehospital lactate concentration, 3) Shock Index, 4) AIS of chest (sensitivity = 0.81, specificity = 0.71). The chosen thresholds were similar to conventional ones. Using conventional thresholds resulted in lower model sensitivity. Consistently, prehospital lactate was among most decisive factors of hospital transfusions identified by Bayesian analysis (OR = 2.31; 95% CI 1.55 – 3.37).

Conclusions

Using an ensemble of frequentist statistics, Bayesian analysis and machine learning, we developed a simple, clinically relevant prehospital algorithm to help identify patients requiring transfusion within 4 h of hospital arrival.
Comparing the Proteomic Profiles of Extracellular Vesicles Isolated using Different Methods from Long-term Stored Plasma Samples
Authors: Torres Ana , Bernardo Lorena , Sánchez Carmen , Morato Esperanza , Solana Jose Carlos , Carrillo Eugenia
Published: June 2024

Background

The lack of standardized protocols for isolating extracellular vesicles (EVs), especially from biobank-stored blood plasma, translates to limitations for the study of new biomarkers. This study examines whether a combination of current isolation methods could enhance the specificity and purity of isolated EVs for diagnosis and personalized medicine purposes.

Results

EVs were isolated from healthy human plasma stored for one year by ultracentrifugation (UC), size exclusion chromatography (SEC), or SEC and UC combined (SEC + UC). The EV isolates were then characterized by transmission electron microscopy imaging, nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) and western blotting. Proteomic procedures were used to analyze protein contents. The presence of EV markers in all isolates was confirmed by western blotting yet this analysis revealed higher albumin expression in EVs-UC, suggesting plasma protein contamination. Proteomic analysis identified 542 proteins, SEC + UC yielding the most complex proteome at 364 proteins. Through gene ontology enrichment, we observed differences in the cellular components of EVs and plasma in that SEC + UC isolates featured higher proportions of EV proteins than those derived from the other two methods. Analysis of proteins unique to each isolation method served to identify 181 unique proteins for the combined approach, including those normally appearing in low concentrations in plasma. This indicates that with this combined method, it is possible to detect less abundant plasma proteins by proteomics in the resultant isolates.

Conclusions

Our findings reveal that the SEC + UC approach yields highly pure and diverse EVs suitable for comprehensive proteomic analysis with applications for the detection of new biomarkers in biobank-stored plasma samples.
Pupal Exuviae of Culex Pipiens L. (Diptera: Culicidae) Can be Utilised as a Non-Invasive Method of Biotype Differentiation
Authors: Jones Laura , Sanders Christopher , England Marion , Cameron Mary , Carpenter Simon
Published: June 2024

Background

Culex pipiens L. is a principal vector of zoonotic arboviruses in Europe, acting in both an amplification role in enzootic transmission between avian hosts and as a bridge vector between avian hosts and mammals. The species consists of two forms which are indistinguishable using morphological methods but possess varying ecological and physiological traits that influence their vector capacity. In this study we validate methods that can be used to extract trace DNA from single pupal exuviae of Cx. pipiens for use in molecular speciation of samples. These DNA extraction methods are compared using measurement of the total yield and successful identification using a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay.

Results

Genomic DNA was initially extracted from colony-derived individuals using an ethanol precipitation method, two commercially available DNA extraction kits: DNeasy® Blood & Tissue Kit (Qiagen, UK) and Wizard® SV Genomic DNA Purification System (Promega, UK) and a direct real-time PCR method. Time elapsed between eclosion and processing of pupae significantly influenced Cx. pipiens form identification as nucleic acid concentration and PCR amplification success decreased with increased time elapsed. Real-time PCR amplification success, however, was not shown to vary significantly between the three extraction methods, with all methods successfully identifying all samples, but the direct real-time PCR method achieved a lesser amplification success rate of 70% (n = 20 for each treatment). More variable results were produced when field-derived exuviae were used, with no significant difference in real-time PCR amplification success found across the four methods and a lower overall rate of successful identification of 55–80%.

Conclusions

This study shows that both colony and field derived Cx. pipiens pupal exuviae can be a useful non-invasive source of trace DNA permitting accurate biotype differentiation for at least twenty-four hours post-eclosion. The significance and utility of this technique in ecological and behavioural studies of Cx. pipiens is discussed and recommendations made for use according to experimental scenario.
High-quality genome assembly and annotation of five bacteria isolated from the Abu Dhabi sabkha-shore region
Authors: Sarfraz Beenish , Tuyisabe Jean , De Montfort Louis , Ibrahim Abdulrahman , Abdulkreem Almansoori Shamma Z. , Alajami Haya , Almeqbaali Asma , Kundu Biduth , Nath Vishnu Sukumari , Saeed Esam Eldin , Mishra Ajay Kumar , Hazzouri Khaled Michel , Almaskari Raja , Sharma Abhishek Kumar , Sudalaimuthuasari Naganeeswaran , Amiri Khaled M. A.
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Sabkhas represent polyextreme environments characterized by elevated salinity levels, intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, and extreme temperature fluctuations. In this study, we present the complete genomes of five bacterial isolates isolated from the sabkha-shore region and investigate their genomic organization and gene annotations. A better understanding of the bacterial genomic organization and genetic adaptations of these bacteria holds promise for engineering microbes with tailored functionalities for diverse industrial and agricultural applications, including bioremediation and promotion of plant growth under salinity stress conditions.

Data description

We present a comprehensive genome sequencing and annotation of five bacteria (kcgeb_sa, kcgeb_sc, kcgeb_sd, kcgeb_S4, and kcgeb_S11) obtained from the shores of the Abu Dhabi Sabkha region. Initial bacterial identification was conducted through 16 S rDNA amplification and sequencing. Employing a hybrid genome assembly technique combining Illumina short reads (NovaSeq 6000) and Oxford Nanopore long reads (MinION), we obtained complete annotated high-quality gap-free genome sequences. The genome sizes of the kcgeb_sa, kcgeb_sc, kcgeb_sd, kcgeb_S4, and kcgeb_S11 isolates were determined to be 2.4 Mb, 4.1 Mb, 2.9 Mb, 5.05 Mb, and 4.1 Mb, respectively. Our analysis conclusively assigned the bacterial isolates as Staphylococcus capitis (kcgeb_sa), Bacillus spizizenii (kcgeb_sc and kcgeb_S11), Pelagerythrobacter marensis (kcgeb_sd), and Priestia aryabhattai (kcgeb_S4).
Exploring crop genomes: assembly features, gene prediction accuracy, and implications for proteomics studies
Authors: Abbas Qussai , Wilhelm Mathias , Kuster Bernhard , Poppenberger Brigitte , Frishman Dmitrij
Published: June 2024

Plant genomics plays a pivotal role in enhancing global food security and sustainability by offering innovative solutions for improving crop yield, disease resistance, and stress tolerance. As the number of sequenced genomes grows and the accuracy and contiguity of genome assemblies improve, structural annotation of plant genomes continues to be a significant challenge due to their large size, polyploidy, and rich repeat content. In this paper, we present an overview of the current landscape in crop genomics research, highlighting the diversity of genomic characteristics across various crop species. We also assessed the accuracy of popular gene prediction tools in identifying genes within crop genomes and examined the factors that impact their performance. Our findings highlight the strengths and limitations of BRAKER2 and Helixer as leading structural genome annotation tools and underscore the impact of genome complexity, fragmentation, and repeat content on their performance. Furthermore, we evaluated the suitability of the predicted proteins as a reliable search space in proteomics studies using mass spectrometry data. Our results provide valuable insights for future efforts to refine and advance the field of structural genome annotation.
Genome-wide characterization and metabolite profiling of Cyathus olla: insights into the biosynthesis of medicinal compounds
Authors: Xie Xiuchao , Zhao Ling , Song Yu , Qiao Yanming , Wang Zhen-Xin , Qi Jianzhao
Published: June 2024

Cyathus olla, belonging to the genusCyathuswithin the order Agaricales, is renowned for its bird's nest-like fruiting bodies and has been utilized in folk medicine. However, its genome remains poorly understood. To investigate genomic diversity within the genusCyathusand elucidate biosynthetic pathways for medicinal compounds, we generated a high-quality genome assembly ofC. ollawith fourteen chromosomes. The comparative genome analysis revealed variations in both genomes and specific functional genes within the genusCyathus. Phylogenomic and gene family variation analyses provided insights into evolutionary divergence, as well as genome expansion and contraction in individualCyathusspecies and 36 typical Basidiomycota. Furthermore, analysis of LTR-RT and Ka/Ks revealed apparent whole-genome duplication (WGD) events its genome. Through genome mining and metabolite profiling, we identified the biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) for cyathane diterpenes fromC. olla. Furthermore, we predicted 32 BGCs, containing 41 core genes, involved in other bioactive metabolites. These findings represent a valuable genomic resource that will enhance our understanding ofCyathusspecies genetic diversity. The genome analysis ofC. ollaprovides insights into the biosynthesis of medicinal compounds and establishes a fundamental basis for future investigations into the genetic basis of chemodiversity in this significant medicinal fungus.
Humoral immune response and safety of Sars-Cov-2 vaccine in people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Hamzavi Seyedeh Sadigheh , Bahrololoom Rosemina , Saeb Sepideh , Marandi Nahid Heydari , Hosseini Marzieh , hesam abadi Alimohammad Keshtvarz , Jamalidoust Marzieh
Published: June 2024

Background

For the past three years, the pandemic has had a major effect on global public health, mainly on those with underlying medical conditions, such as people living with Multiple Sclerosis. Vaccination among this group is of great importance, and the long-term impacts of vaccination and its safety on the health of these patients will continue to be revealed. Therefore, risks related to vaccination and immune response need to be assessed. The objective here was to characterize the immune response, short-term safety, and the effects of multiple variables on these factors after COVID-19 vaccination (mainly Sinopharm) among people with Multiple Sclerosis. We assessed the short-term safety and humoral SARS-COV-2 anti-RBD IgG response using a data collection form and Immunoassay, respectively.

Results

No severe adverse events or MS relapse was observed. Myalgia/body pain (26.7%), low-grade fever (22.2%), and mild headache (15.6%) were the most common adverse events. The use and type of vaccine influenced the frequency of side effects with a p-value < 0.0001. Regarding immune response, patients on rituximab and fingolimod had a lower antibody titer compared to other medications. With a significant difference, hybrid immunity (p-value: 0.047) and type of DMTs (p-value: 0.017) affected the humoral response.

Conclusion

There is a low incidence of serious adverse effects, MS worsening or relapse after COVID-19 vaccination, and mainly, side effects are similar to that of the general population. It appears that treatment with various disease-modifying therapies does not induce or worsen the post-vaccination side effects, although some, including Rituximab and fingolimod, may affect the immunity induced after vaccination.
Completed genome and emergence scenario of the multidrug-resistant nosocomial pathogen Staphylococcus epidermidis ST215
Authors: Kellgren Therese , Dwibedi Chinmay , Widerström Micael , Sundell David , Öhrman Caroline , Sjödin Andreas , Monsen Tor , Rydén Patrik , Johansson Anders
Published: June 2024

Background

A multidrug-resistant lineage of Staphylococcus epidermidis named ST215 is a common cause of prosthetic joint infections and other deep surgical site infections in Northern Europe, but is not present elsewhere. The increasing resistance among S. epidermidis strains is a global concern. We used whole-genome sequencing to characterize ST215 from healthcare settings.

Results

We completed the genome of a ST215 isolate from a Swedish hospital using short and long reads, resulting in a circular 2,676,787 bp chromosome and a 2,326 bp plasmid. The new ST215 genome was placed in phylogenetic context using 1,361 finished public S. epidermidis reference genomes. We generated 10 additional short-read ST215 genomes and 11 short-read genomes of ST2, which is another common multidrug-resistant lineage at the same hospital. We studied recombination’s role in the evolution of ST2 and ST215, and found multiple recombination events averaging 30–50 kb. By comparing the results of antimicrobial susceptibility testing for 31 antimicrobial drugs with the genome content encoding antimicrobial resistance in the ST215 and ST2 isolates, we found highly similar resistance traits between the isolates, with 22 resistance genes being shared between all the ST215 and ST2 genomes. The ST215 genome contained 29 genes that were historically identified as virulence genes of S. epidermidis ST2. We established that in the nucleotide sequence stretches identified as recombination events, virulence genes were overrepresented in ST215, while antibiotic resistance genes were overrepresented in ST2.

Conclusions

This study features the extensive antibiotic resistance and virulence gene content in ST215 genomes. ST215 and ST2 lineages have similarly evolved, acquiring resistance and virulence through genomic recombination. The results highlight the threat of new multidrug-resistant S. epidermidis lineages emerging in healthcare settings.
Physiological and transcriptome analysis of changes in endogenous hormone and sugar content during the formation of tender asparagus stems
Authors: He Maolin , Chen Peiran , Li Mengyao , Lei Fengyun , Lu Wei , Jiang Chengyao , Liu Junting , Li Yanwen , Xiao Jiachang , Zheng Yangxia
Published: June 2024

Asparagus is a nutritionally dense stem vegetable whose growth and development are correlated with its quality and yield. To investigate the dynamic changes and underlying mechanisms during the elongation and growth process of asparagus stems, we documented the growth pattern of asparagus and selected stem segments from four consecutive elongation stages using physiological and transcriptome analyses. Notably, the growth rate of asparagus accelerated at a length of 25 cm. A significant decrease in the concentration of sucrose, fructose, glucose, and additional sugars was observed in the elongation region of tender stems. Conversely, the levels of auxin and gibberellins(GAs) were elevated along with increased activity of enzymes involved in sucrose degradation. A significant positive correlation existed between auxin, GAs, and enzymes involved in sucrose degradation. The ABA content gradually increased with stem elongation. The tissue section showed that cell elongation is an inherent manifestation of stem elongation. The differential genes screened by transcriptome analysis were enriched in pathways such as starch and sucrose metabolism, phytohormone synthesis metabolism, and signal transduction. The expression levels of genes such as ARF, GA20ox, NCED, PIF4, and otherswere upregulated during stem elongation, while DAO, GA2ox, and other genes were downregulated. The gene expression level was consistent with changes in hormone content and influenced the cell length elongation. Additionally, the expression results of RT-qPCR were consistent with RNA-seq. The observed variations in gene expression levels, endogenous hormones and sugar changes during the elongation and growth of asparagus tender stems offer valuable insights for future investigations into the molecular mechanisms of asparagus stem growth and development and provide a theoretical foundation for cultivation and production practices.
Selenium and its nanoparticles modulate the metabolism of reactive oxygen species and morpho-physiology of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) to combat oxidative stress under water deficit conditions
Authors: Hasanuzzaman Mirza , Raihan Md. Rakib Hossain , Siddika Ayesha , Bardhan Kirti , Hosen Md. Sarwar , Prasad P. V. Vara
Published: June 2024

Background

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most important cereal crop species worldwide, but its growth and development are adversely influenced by drought stress. However, the application of trace elements is known to improve plant physiology under water-limited conditions. In this study, the effects of drought stress on wheat plants were investigated, with a focus on potential mitigation by foliar application of selenium nanoparticles (Se(np)) and sodium selenate (Na2SeO4). The experiment was conducted in a net house using a completely randomized design with four replications. The treatments involved three levels of drought stress (mild, moderate, and severe) started at 30 days after sowing (DAS), with foliar sprays of Se(np) and Se (both 25 µM) initiated at 27 DAS and repeated 4 times at 7-day intervals until 55 DAS.

Results

Drought stress significantly reduced plant growth, whereas Se(np) and Se sprays enhanced it. Drought stress induced chlorophyll degradation, increased malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide levels, impaired membrane stability, and caused electrolyte leakage. Severe drought stress reduced the levels of antioxidants (e.g., proline, ascorbate, and glutathione by 4.18-fold, 80%, and 45%) and the activities of antioxidant enzymes (ascorbate peroxidase, dehydroascorbate reductase, and others). Conversely, treatment with Se(np) and Se restored these parameters, for example, 1.23-fold higher total chlorophyll content with Se(np) treatment, 26% higher APX activity with Se treatment, 15% lower electrolyte leakage with Se treatment in wheat plants under severe drought stress. This Se-associated enhancement facilitated rapid scavenging of reactive oxygen species and reduced methylglyoxal toxicity, thereby diminishing oxidative stress and positively affecting the morphophysiological and biochemical responses of the plants under drought.

Conclusions

Drought-stressed wheat plants exhibited reductions in physiological processes, including water uptake and photosynthetic activity. However, Se(np) and Se applied at 25 µM mitigated the detrimental effects of drought. The application of Se(np) was notably more effective than the application of Se in mitigating drought stress, indicating the potential of the application of Se(np) as a sustainable agricultural practice under water-limited conditions.