bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bilingual false recognition: Examining inferences and language tagging in the dual-language context
Authors: Yurtsever Aslı , Göksun Tilbe , Gülgöz Sami
Published: June 2024

Purpose:

Inference-making is a critical process in understanding and processing information daily. People synthesize inputs into a whole and retain the whole (gist) instead of specific parts (verbatim). False recognition of inferred information offers evidence for it. We conducted two studies to examine whether memory errors occurred similarly when bilinguals were tested separately and concurrently on two languages, and whether bilinguals remembered the language in which the information was received (language tag).

Methodology:

We recruited Turkish native speakers who spoke English as a second language. After inducing spatial inferences about objects, we tested participants on configuration, sentence recognition, and language recognition in Turkish, English, and dual-language conditions. We measured their second language proficiency and executive functioning with standardized assessments.

Data and analysis:

We performed within-subjects analyses of covariance to investigate the within-language differences in sentence recognition and the role of individual cognitive differences ( N = 34 in Experiment 1, N = 48 in Experiment 2).

Findings:

Experiment 1 showed that inferences were falsely recognized in L1 (Turkish) and L2 (English) conditions, but not in the dual-language. We found no effect of individual cognitive differences. In Experiment 2, we replicated Experiment 1 and found that false recognition of inferred sentences was predicted more by lower executive functions (EF) scores and higher second language proficiency. In both experiments, participants accurately identified the language tag. Higher EF scores predicted higher tag accuracy. We conclude that inferring information in the second language induces memory errors, and inferences are tagged with the language of encoding.

Originality:

We used an ecologically valid sentence-level paradigm to test inferences and their connection to bilingual false memories in the second language and dual-language contexts. We explored the individual differences in language and cognitive abilities.

Significance:

Bilingual information processing is influenced significantly by exposure to stimuli, task difficulty, the language context, and language proficiency.
Effects of refugee settlement on citizens: A prospective longitudinal study of associations between perceived intergroup threat and mental health
Authors: Feddes Allard R. , Arjangi-Babetti Hannah J. , Bosdijk Susan , Klawitter Lisa , Romers Annelies H. , Tsaousoglou Sofia , Doosje Bertjan , Effting Marieke , van Emmerik Arnold A. P.
Published: June 2024

The present study prospectively examines associations between citizens’ perceived symbolic and realistic threat and mental health before and after refugee settlement in their neighbourhood. Citizens in two Amsterdam (the Netherlands) neighbourhoods participated in the study ( N = 280). A follow-up measurement after the settlement of refugees was conducted in one neighbourhood ( n = 66). Cross-sectional results confirm that higher levels of perceived symbolic and realistic threat were both associated with poorer mental health. A prospective longitudinal analysis showed no increase in realistic or symbolic threat, but mental health was poorer in citizens after refugee settlement. Higher threat perceptions among citizens in the area before the settlement of refugees predicted poorer mental health after the settlement. This association was stronger than the reverse association (poorer mental health predicting higher threat perceptions). Policymakers should consider experienced threat levels among citizens when developing and communicating refugee settlement policies.
The effectiveness of bone anchored maxillary protraction (BAMP) in the management of class III skeletal malocclusion in children aged 11–14 years compared with an untreated control group: A multicentre two-arm parallel randomised controlled trial
Authors: Mandall Nicky , Aleid Wesam , Cousley Richard , Curran Edith , Caldwell Susi , DiBiase Andrew , Dyer Fiona , Littlewood Simon , Nute Spencer , Campbell Sarah Jayne , Atkins Simon , Bayoumi Sherif , Bhatt Vyomesh , Chambers Paul , Goodger Nicholas , Bates Claire , Malik Ovais , Waring David , Bassett Paul
Published: June 2024

Objective:

To evaluate the effectiveness of bone anchored maxillary protraction (BAMP) in the management of class III skeletal malocclusion in children aged 11–14 years compared with an untreated control group in terms of perceived need for orthognathic surgery, skeletal and dental change, and psychological impact.

Design:

A multicentre two-armed parallel randomised controlled trial.

Setting:

Six UK hospital orthodontic units.

Methods:

A total of 57 patients were randomly allocated into either the BAMP group (BAMPG) (n = 28) or a no treatment control group (CG) (n = 29).

Outcomes:

Data collection occurred at registration (DC1),18 months (DC2) and 3 years (DC3), where skeletal and dental changes were measured from lateral cephalograms and study models. Oral Aesthetic Subjective Impact Score (OASIS) and Oral Quality of Life (OHQOL) questionnaires were used to assess the psychological impact of treatment.

Results:

The mean age was 12.9 ± 0.7 years and 12.6 ± 0.9 years in the BAMPG and CG, respectively. At DC2, the BAMPG achieved a class III ANB improvement of +0.6° compared with −0.7° in the CG ( P = 0.004). The overjet improvement was +1.4 mm for the BAMPG and −0.2 mm for the CG ( P = 0.002). There was no evidence of any other group differences for the other skeletal or dental cephalometric outcomes ( P > 0.05) or the questionnaire data (OASIS P = 0.10, OHQOL P = 0.75). At DC2, the 18-month follow-up, 22% of the BAMPG achieved a positive overjet. At the 3-year follow-up (DC3), fewer participants in the BAMPG were perceived to need orthognathic surgery (48%) compared with 75% of participants in the CG ( P = 0.04), with an odds ratio of 0.31 (95% confidence interval = 0.10–0.95).

Conclusion:

The BAMP technique did not show any social or psychological benefits; however, the skeletal class III improvement in ANB and the overjet change were sufficient to reduce the perceived need for orthognathic surgery by 27% compared with the CG.
Effects of Federal Loans on First-Year College Student Retention, Transfer, and Dropout
Authors: Chen Rong , Smith Katie N.
Published: June 2024

This study utilizes marginal mean weighting through stratification (MMW-S) to analyze data from the Beginning Postsecondary Students 2012–2014 (BPS:12/14) survey. Specifically, this study estimates the effects of federal loan levels on first-year college students’ decisions to persist by staying at their first institution or by transferring to another institution, or to drop out of the higher education system. Results indicate non-linear and heterogeneous effects of federal student loans. Compared with zero loans, having a low level of federal student loans is positively related to transferring to other institutions. Compared with zero loans, having a moderate level of loans is negatively associated with system dropout. Through interaction effect tests, we find some variation in these effects between students by race/ethnicity, with federal loans uniquely and adversely affecting Black student persistence.
Determination of the Fatty Acid Compositions and Bioactive Properties of Argemone mexicana Seed Oil
Authors: Asfaw Melese Damtew , Yadeta Adamu Tizazu , Awoke Mequanint Gebeyehu
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The objective of this study was to analyze the fatty acid content, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of Argemone mexicana seed oil growing wild in north East Ethiopia.

Materials and Methods

Oils of A mexicana L. were obtained by means of Screw press from seeds. Methyl esters were derived from the oily mixtures by trans-esterification process and were analyzed by GC/FID and GC/MS systems. This oil was investigated for antioxidant activity using a DPPH radical-scavenging assay and was also tested against a panel of microorganisms.

Results

Linolenic acid (49.00%) and oleic acid (28.91%) were the most abundant fatty acids in leaves and stems, respectively. The oil showed moderate to highest antimicrobial activity against Bacillus subtilis, Candida albicans, Shigella dysentery, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeroginosa, and Escherichia coli. The oil also demonstrated the highest antioxidant activity with the percentage of inhibition of 92.5% at a concentration of 1.5 mg/mL, and its IC50 and AAI were 22.4 µg/mL and 4.93 µg/mL, respectively.

Conclusion

The results obtained from the present study indicated that the oil of A mexicana seed oil contained a high source of polyunsaturated fatty acids. These results also showed that the extracted oil from this plant has significant antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.
Does God Delight in Violence? A Fresh Look at the Love of God in the Book of Revelation
Authors: Duvall J. Scott
Published: June 2024

Those who reject or are put off by Revelation often point to the book’s violence as the central reason. Revelation contains more violent images than any other New Testament book. Can the love of God be found in John’s Apocalypse? This article explores this question in detail. We begin with a look at how to read Revelation responsibly, especially the book’s vivid imagery. In large part this calls for a serious reading the book in light of its historical and literary contexts. Then we look closely at the theme of the love of the Triune God throughout Revelation. Grasping the theme of divine love sheds new light on how to understand the book’s violent imagery. Overall we suggest that Revelation focuses on both divine love and divine justice, two realities that are not ultimate in conflict.
Internalizing the Love of God: A Theological Psychology of Receiving and Resisting Love
Authors: Porter Steve L.
Published: June 2024

This paper provides a conceptual framework for explaining how someone can know of God’s love factually but fail to receive God’s love experientially. After developing a theological epistemology of knowledge of God’s love, I turn to the psychodynamic concept of internalization to further explain resistance and receptivity to God’s loving presence. The paper concludes with implications for Christian spiritual formation.
The first platform work judgment in Central and Eastern Europe
Authors: Gyulavári Tamás
Published: June 2024

The Hungarian Supreme Court passed the first platform work decision in Central and Eastern Europe in December 2023. The court classified the food delivery platform worker of a delivery platform as self-employed, based on interpretation of the Labour Code, and case law on employment relationships. The reasoning of the decision calls for a critique.
The impacts of implementing e-blended learning approach (e-BLA) in communicative english language skills I course: Focused on Wolaita Sodo University, Ethiopia
Authors: Wodebo Amanuel Yonas , Gencha Mulu Geta , Ali Wondwosen T
Published: June 2024

This study dealt with the impacts of implementing an e-blended learning approach (e-BLA) in communicative English language skills 1 (CELS1) course to achieve English speaking skills (ESS). Hence, the pre & post-test design of a quasi-experimental study was employed. The informants were two sections’ 102 students (50 & 52) who were categorized under comparison & treatment groups to pass through CMI & an e-BLA respectively. The tools were then tests, classroom observation & FGD. Six among the treatment group were selected for the FGD. The quantitative data of independent & paired samples t-tests were utilized to determine the significant differences of inter & intragroup between an e-BLA & CMI at 0.05 (5%) alpha level. The qualitative data of FGD & observations were thematically analyzed in a statement form. Hence, the mean comparison of pretest scores in independent samples t-test (53.02 & 54.19) reveals the absence of significant difference of scores between the two groups before intervention. However, after the intervention, the treatment group outscored (70.81) significantly higher ( p < .05) than the comparison group (55.56) on SST. Similarly, the paired samples t-test indicated the magnitude of the posttest (70.81) over the pre (54.19) with the effect size −3.4. Likewise, the qualitative data revealed the informants achieved ESS better in e-BLA than CMI. Therefore, Ethiopian educational curriculum should consider e-integrated instructions in all subjects & all levels.
Space sustainability through atmosphere pollution? De-orbiting, atmosphere-blindness and planetary environmental injustice
Authors: Flamm Patrick , Lambach Daniel , Schaefer-Rolffs Urs , Stolle Claudia , Braun Vitali
Published: June 2024

Space debris is a major issue for space safety as any collision of a space object with even a small piece of debris can have catastrophic consequences. The most recent dramatic increase of the number of satellites in Earth’s orbit is clearly exacerbating the risks. In this context there is a growing norm of disposal of orbital debris through atmospheric re-entry: space debris is to ‘burn up harmlessly in the atmosphere’, in order to provide for a ‘clean space’. Unfortunately, there is very little data on the environmental impact of deorbiting on atmospheric chemistry and in-situ data collection is practically impossible. The few existing studies – our own modelling included – agree that while the current impact of deorbiting is likely negligible, the projected exponential growth of satellites in LEO could exacerbate the risks. In consequence, space sustainability may come at the expense of damaging the health of the middle and upper atmosphere, with potentially unforeseeable consequences. Against this backdrop, we argue that in order to manage LEO sustainably, we must overcome this – what we call – ‘atmosphere-blindness’: our limited understanding of space-Earth system links through orbital disposal practices and their atmospheric impacts. While there is growing environmental consciousness with regard to outer space, we need to acknowledge that space sustainability is embedded in a wider context of outer space geopolitics, where the benefits and risks of the space infrastructure are distributed highly unequally. In our view it is thus crucially important to undertake more interdisciplinary research on the issue of de-orbiting, as it is not merely a technical environmental problem to be fixed but also an inherently political matter of planetary scale environmental justice.
Working Experiences of Care Aides in Long-Term Care Institutions Following the Relaxation of COVID-19 Regulations in Taiwan: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Huang Hui-Chun , Hsu Chen-Yuan , Shih Chen-I , Huang Hsiu-Chen , Yang Hui-Fei , Fan Sheng-Yu
Published: June 2024

Care aides in long-term care (LTC) institutions care for older disabled residents at high risk for COVID-19. However, they experienced many stressors during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to explore the working experiences of care aides in LTC institutions following the relaxation of COVID-19 regulations in Taiwan. This qualitative descriptive study included 20 care aides who had cared for residents with COVID-19. Data were obtained via semi-structured interviews. Caring for residents with COVID-19 and the difficulties, resources and teamwork, and impact of care aides’ work on their lives were discussed. Consequently, four themes were identified. First, difficulties in care, which included physical limitations by protection, workload, and impact of work schedule on the lives of the care aides. Second, psychological impact, such as worry, social isolation, and burnout. Third, interpersonal relationships with supervisors, colleagues, residents, and their families. Fourth, infection control policy from the institution and government. When infection control policies were relaxed, care aides had difficulties in caring for residents; furthermore, their family and social lives were also affected. They were required to learn knowledge of and skills for COVID-19 management. Institutions were required to provide support in materials, care processes, environment, and management.
Sitting with you in uncertainty: a reflective essay on the contribution of social work to end-of-life care
Authors: Dowd Sarah , Salama Rebecca
Published: June 2024

Death may be the only certainty in life, but for palliative care patients and their carers, it is anything but. How long is there left? Will a hospice bed be available? What new loss (big or small), will tomorrow bring? Research suggests that the poor management of uncertainty in palliative care can significantly impact patient outcomes as well as the experience of bereaved families. Social workers cannot mitigate this uncertainty, but they can support individuals to recognise and engage with it. Often, this can create tensions with their personal instinct to remove distress, as well as their professional drive to ‘fix things’. By overcoming these challenges and embracing their ability to find ways forward ‘in the midst of the messy stuff’, they model a constructive mode of behaviour that patients and other multidisciplinary professionals can then mirror.
Rethinking big P: Integrating personal and academic psychology knowledge in university teaching
Authors: Rack Emelie
Published: June 2024

Looking at how people get oriented towards the psychological discipline, it is striking that students are often initially drawn to psychology because they wish better to understand their personal experiences and the world around them. However, these initial aspirations often remain unmet by the content of academic psychology classes and the teachers conveying it. Building on my experiences as a psychology lecturer, I explore the challenges of connecting personal experiences to psychological content in academic practice for students and teachers and how this can be traced back to the ongoing contested nature of psychology’s subject matter. In doing so, I mainly draw on the distinction between ‘big P’ academic psychology knowledge and ‘small p’ everyday psychology knowledge to explain the current conditions and discursive dynamics in psychology classrooms. I then turn to insights from other disciplines concerned with facilitating academic teaching experiences integrating personal engagement and everyday experience to explore how the role of psychology instructors can be redefined and expanded in the future. Given that university classrooms play a pivotal role in shaping students’ professional identity and perception of the discipline, I advocate for acknowledging and utilizing the personal relevance of seminar contents to bridge the gap between ‘big P’ and ‘small p’ psychology in academic teaching.
Analysing the Adoption of Wealthtech by Individual Investors for Investment Services
Authors: Jisham Muhammed , Vanitha S. , John Abin
Published: June 2024

This research investigates the adoption of Wealthtech among individual investors in India using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). A convenience sample technique was employed, gathering data from 280 participants through an online survey. The study applies the Theory of Planned Behavior and the Technology Acceptance Model as the theoretical framework to examine the factors influencing the intention to use Wealthtech. Additionally, the role of perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness in shaping attitudes toward Wealthtech adoption is explored. The results from the PLS-SEM analysis show significant positive associations between Attitude and Perceived Behavioral Control with the intention to use Wealthtech. These insights can help financial institutions tailor Wealthtech platforms to meet investor preferences, fostering increased adoption among individual investors. Regulatory authorities can use these findings to enhance accessibility and acceptance of Wealthtech solutions by fostering a conducive environment for technological innovation.
Updated cutaneous T-cell lymphoma TNMB staging criteria fail to identify patients with Sézary syndrome with low blood burden
Authors: Chrisman Lauren P. , Trimark Payton Fors , Pang Yanzhen , Pease David Randall , Martinez-Escala Maria Estela , Nguyen William Q. , Fernandez Rony , Griffin Teresa L. , Ayanruoh Lindsey , Hooper Madeline J. , Zhou Xiaolong A. , Fu Lucy , Wolniak Kristy L. , Guitart Joan
Published: June 2024

Comparison of the 2007 EORTC/ISCL and the 2022 EORTC/ISCL/USCLC blood staging guidelines for cutaneous T-cell lymphoma at a single institution reveals the newer guidelines fail to detect a subset of patients with Sézary syndrome with low blood burden.
Elasto-plastic material model of green beech wood
Authors: Zlámal Jan , Mařík Robert , Vojáčková Barbora , Cristini Valentino , Brabec Martin , Praus Luděk , Tippner Jan
Published: June 2024

Physically modelling the mechanical response of a tree by numerical simulation depends on having accurate data on the mechanical properties of green hardwood. Lacking such data, we developed and validated an orthotropic elasto-plastic (E–P) material model, based on the results of experiments performed on European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) green wood, capable of including both the non-linearity and orthotropic properties of the material. We selected 655 clear samples with the special orthotropic structure of annual rings. All samples were prepared immediately after felling; their moisture content (MC) was 80% on average. The mechanical responses in normal directions and shear are represented by bi-linear stress–strain curves. The E–P model was validated by comparing the force–deflection response of three-point bending of green wood samples in a finite-element method (FEM) simulation (the average relative error was 4.6% for point-wise and 1.7% for integral-wise comparison). The output of this work was a consistent set of material constants for the E–P material model that is now available for the structural analysis of beech wood with MC above to fibre saturation point (FSP), especially green wood, subjected to relatively high loads (such that a plastic deformation appears) and that can very well predict a non-linear response above the proportional limits.
Transcriptome analysis revealed differences in gene expression in sheep muscle tissue at different developmental stages
Authors: Wan Sailuo , Lou Mengyu , Zhang Sihuan , Li Shuang , Ling Yinghui
Published: June 2024

Background

The analysis of differentially expressed genes in muscle tissues of sheep at different ages is helpful to analyze the gene expression trends during muscle development. In this study, the longissimus dorsi muscle of pure breeding Hu sheep (H), Suffolk sheep and Hu sheep hybrid F1 generation (SH) and East Friesian and Hu sheep hybrid sheep (EHH) three strains of sheep born 2 days (B2) and 8 months (M8) was used as the research object, and transcriptome sequencing technology was used to identify the differentially expressed genes of sheep longissimus dorsi muscle in these two stages. Subsequently, GO and KEGG enrichment analysis were performed on the differential genes. Nine differentially expressed genes were randomly selected and their expression levels were verified by qRT-PCR.

Results

The results showed that 842, 1301 and 1137 differentially expressed genes were identified in H group, SH group and EHH group, respectively. Among them, 191 differential genes were enriched in these three strains, including pre-folding protein subunit 6 (PFDN6), DnaJ heat shock protein family member A4 (DNAJA4), myosin heavy chain 8 (MYH8) and so on. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis was performed on 191 differentially expressed genes shared by the three strains to determine common biological pathways. The results showed that the differentially expressed genes were significantly enriched in ribosomes, unfolded protein binding, FoxO signaling pathway, glycolysis / glycogen generation and glutathione signaling pathway that regulate muscle protein synthesis and energy metabolism. The results of qRT-PCR were consistent with transcriptome sequencing, which proved that the sequencing results were reliable.

Conclusions

Overall, this study revealed the important genes and signaling pathways related to sheep skeletal muscle development, and the result laid a foundation for further understanding the mechanism of sheep skeletal muscle development.
Complete genome sequence of Bacillus velezensis strain Ag109, a biocontrol agent against plant-parasitic nematodes and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum
Authors: Mian Silas , Machado Andressa Cristina Zamboni , Hoshino Rodrigo Thibes , Mosela Mirela , Higashi Allan Yukio , Shimizu Gabriel Danilo , Teixeira Gustavo Manoel , Nogueira Alison Fernando , Giacomin Renata Mussoi , Ribeiro Luriam Aparecida Brandão , Koltun Alessandra , de Assis Rafael , Gonçalves Leandro Simões Azeredo
Published: June 2024

Soybean is the main oilseed cultivated worldwide. Even though Brazil is the world’s largest producer and exporter of soybean, its production is severely limited by biotic factors. Soil borne diseases are the most damaging biotic stressors since they significantly reduce yield and are challenging to manage. In this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the potential of a bacterial strain (Ag109) as a biocontrol agent for different soil pathogens (nematodes and fungi) of soybean. In addition, the genome of Ag109 was wholly sequenced and genes related to secondary metabolite production and plant growth promotion were mined. Ag109 showed nematode control in soybean and controlled 69 and 45% of the populations of Meloidogyne javanica and Pratylenchus brachyurus, respectively. Regarding antifungal activity, these strains showed activity against Macrophomia phaseolina, Rhizoctonia solani, and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. For S. sclerotiorum, this strain increased the number of healthy plants and root dry mass compared to the control (with inoculation). Based on the average nucleotide identity and digital DNA-DNA hybridization, this strain was identified as Bacillus velezensis. Diverse clusters of specific genes related to secondary metabolite biosynthesis and root growth promotion were identified, highlighting the potential of this strain to be used as a multifunctional microbial inoculant that acts as a biological control agent while promoting plant growth in soybean.
Mechanism and bioinformatics analysis of the effect of berberine-enhanced fluconazole against drug-resistant Candida albicans
Authors: Wu Sitong , Jia Wei , Lu Yu , Jiang Hongkun , Huang Chunlan , Tang Shifu , Du Le
Published: June 2024

Biofilms produced by Candida albicans present a challenge in treatment with antifungal drug. Enhancing the sensitivity to fluconazole (FLC) is a reasonable method for treating FLC-resistant species. Moreover, several lines of evidence have demonstrated that berberine (BBR) can have antimicrobial effects. The aim of this study was to clarify the underlying mechanism of these effects. We conducted a comparative study of the inhibition of FLC-resistant strain growth by FLC treatment alone, BBR treatment alone, and the synergistic effect of combined FLC and BBR treatment. Twenty-four isolated strains showed distinct biofilm formation capabilities. The antifungal effect of combined FLC and BBR treatment in terms of the growth and biofilm formation of Candida albicans species was determined via checkerboard, time-kill, and fluorescence microscopy assays. The synergistic effect of BBR and FLC downregulated the expression of the efflux pump genes CDR1 and MDR, the hyphal gene HWP1, and the adhesion gene ALS3; however, the gene expression of the transcriptional repressor TUP1 was upregulated following treatment with this drug combination. Furthermore, the addition of BBR led to a marked reduction in cell surface hydrophobicity. To identify resistance-related genes and virulence factors through genome-wide sequencing analysis, we investigated the inhibition of related resistance gene expression by the combination of BBR and FLC, as well as the associated signaling pathways and metabolic pathways. The KEGG metabolic map showed that the metabolic genes in this strain are mainly involved in amino acid and carbon metabolism. The metabolic pathway map showed that several ergosterol (ERG) genes were involved in the synthesis of cell membrane sterols, which may be related to drug resistance. In this study, BBR + FLC combination treatment upregulated the expression of the ERG1, ERG3, ERG4, ERG5, ERG24, and ERG25 genes and downregulated the expression of the ERG6 and ERG9 genes compared with fluconazole treatment alone (p < 0.05).
Assessing the biodiversity of rhizosphere and endophytic fungi in Knoxia valerianoides under continuous cropping conditions
Authors: Liu Chunju , Zhang Lei , Li Heng , He Xiahong , Dong Jiahong , Qiu Bin
Published: June 2024

Background

Rhizosphere and endophytic fungi play important roles in plant health and crop productivity. However, their community dynamics during the continuous cropping of Knoxia valerianoides have rarely been reported. K. valerianoides is a perennial herb of the family Rubiaceae and has been used in herbal medicines for ages. Here, we used high-throughput sequencing technology Illumina MiSeq to study the structural and functional dynamics of the rhizosphere and endophytic fungi of K. valerianoides.

Results

The findings indicate that continuous planting has led to an increase in the richness and diversity of rhizosphere fungi, while concomitantly resulting in a decrease in the richness and diversity of root fungi. The diversity of endophytic fungal communities in roots was lower than that of the rhizosphere fungi. Ascomycota and Basidiomycota were the dominant phyla detected during the continuous cropping of K. valerianoides. In addition, we found that root rot directly affected the structure and diversity of fungal communities in the rhizosphere and the roots of K. valerianoides. Consequently, both the rhizosphere and endophyte fungal communities of root rot-infected plants showed higher richness than the healthy plants. The relative abundance of Fusarium in two and three years old root rot-infected plants was significantly higher than the control, indicating that continuous planting negatively affected the health of K. valerianoides plants. Decision Curve Analysis showed that soil pH, organic matter (OM), available K, total K, soil sucrase (S_SC), soil catalase (S_CAT), and soil cellulase (S_CL) were significantly related (p < 0.05) to the fungal community dynamics.

Conclusions

The diversity of fungal species in the rhizosphere and root of K. valerianoides was reported for the first time. The fungal diversity of rhizosphere soil was higher than that of root endophytic fungi. The fungal diversity of root rot plants was higher than that of healthy plants. Soil pH, OM, available K, total K, S_CAT, S_SC, and S_CL were significantly related to the fungal diversity. The occurrence of root rot had an effect on the community structure and diversity of rhizosphere and root endophytic fungi.
Enhancing french basil growth through synergistic Foliar treatment with copper nanoparticles and Spirulina sp.
Authors: Elbanna Heba Mahmoud , Ahmed Osama Konsowa , Fayed Sayed Abdel-Kader , Hammam Khaled Abdel-Moneim , Yousef Rania Saber
Published: June 2024

Background

This study investigates a novel idea about the foliar application of nanoparticles as nanofertilizer combined with a natural stimulant, blue-green algae Spirulina platensis L. extract, as a bio-fertilizer to achieve safety from using nanoparticles for enhancement of the growth and production of the plant. Thus, this experiment aimed to chemically synthesize copper nanoparticles via copper sulfate in addition to evaluate the impact of CuNPs at 500, 1000, and 1500 mg/L and the combination of CuNPs with or without microalgae extract at 0.5, 1, and 1.5 g/L on the morphological parameters, photosynthetic pigments accumulation, essential oil production, and antioxidant activity of French basil.

Results

The results revealed that foliar application of CuNPs and its interaction with spirulina extract significantly increased growth and yield compared with control, the treatments of 1000 and 1500 mg/L had less impact than 500 mg/L CuNPs. Plants treated with 500 mg/L CuNPs and 1.5 g/L spirulina extract showed the best growth and oil production, as well as the highest accumulation of chlorophylls and carotenoids. The application of CuNPs nanofertilizer caused a significant increase in the antioxidant activity of the French basil plant, but the combination of CuNPs with spirulina extract caused a decrease in antioxidant activity.

Conculosion

Therefore, foliar application of natural bio-fertilizer with CuNPsis necessary for obtaining the best growth and highest oil production from the French basil plant with the least damage to the plant and the environment.
Why can Mikania micrantha cover trees quickly during invasion?
Authors: Chen Lihua , Cai Minling , Zhang Qilei , Pan Yanru , Chen Manting , Zhang Xiaowen , Wu Jirong , Luo Haoshen , Peng Changlian
Published: June 2024

The invasion of Mikania micrantha by climbing and covering trees has rapidly caused the death of many shrubs and trees, seriously endangering forest biodiversity. In this study, M. micrantha seedlings were planted together with local tree species (Cryptocarya concinna) to simulate the process of M. micrantha climbing under the forest. We found that the upper part of the M. micrantha stem lost its support after climbing to the top of the tree, grew in a turning and creeping manner, and then grew branches rapidly to cover the tree canopy. Then, we simulated the branching process through turning treatment. We found that a large number of branches had been formed near the turning part of the M. micrantha stem (TP). Compared with the upper part of the main stem (UP), the contents of plant hormones (auxin, cytokinin, gibberellin), soluble sugars (sucrose, glucose, fructose) and trehalose-6-phosphate (T6P) were significantly accumulated at TP. Further combining the transcriptome data of different parts of the main stem under erect or turning treatment, a hypothetical regulation model to illustrate how M. micrantha can quickly cover trees was proposed based on the regulation of sugars and hormones on plant branching; that is, the lack of support after ascending the top of the tree led to turning growth of the main stem, and the enhancement of sugars and T6P levels in the TP may first drive the release of nearby dormant buds. Plant hormone accumulation may regulate the entrance of buds into sustained growth and maintain the elongation of branches together with sugars to successfully covering trees.
Associations of life’s essential 8 with extent of multi-territorial atherosclerotic plaques and stenosis: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Yanli , Liu Dandan , Cai Xueli , Jin Aoming , Mei Lerong , Jing Jing , Wang Suying , Meng Xia , Li Shan , Wang Mengxing , Yan Hongyi , Wei Tiemin , Wang Yongjun , Pan Yuesong
Published: June 2024

Background

Life’s Essential 8 (LE8), the recently updated construct for quantifying cardiovascular health, is related to the risks of cardiovascular events. The present study aimed to evaluate associations of LE8 score with the multi-territorial extent of atherosclerosis in a community-dwelling population.

Methods

Data were derived from the baseline cross-sectional survey of the PolyvasculaR Evaluation for Cognitive Impairment and vaScular Events (PRECISE) study in Lishui City. The LE8 included overall, medical and behavior LE8 scores, and were categorized as low (< 60), moderate (60-<80), and high (≥ 80) groups. Vascular magnetic resonance imaging was used to evaluate intracranial and extracranial arteries; thoracoabdominal computed tomography angiography to evaluate coronary, subclavian, aorta, renal, ilio-femoral arteries; and ankle-brachial index to evaluate peripheral arteries. The presence of atherosclerotic plaque or stenosis in any territory was defined as plaque or vascular stenosis with 1 territory affected or more in these arteries. The extent of atherosclerotic plaques or stenosis was assessed according to the number of these 8 vascular sites affected, and graded as four grades (none, single territory, 2–3 territories, 4–8 territories).

Results

Of 3065 included participants, the average age was 61.2 ± 6.7 years, and 53.5% were women (n = 1639). The moderate and high overall LE8 groups were associated with lower extent of multi-territorial plaques [common odds ratio (cOR) 0.44, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.35–0.55; cOR 0.16, 95%CI, 0.12–0.21; respectively] and stenosis (cOR 0.51, 95%CI, 0.42–0.62; cOR 0.16, 95%CI, 0.12–0.21; respectively) after adjustment for potential covariates. Similar results were observed for medical LE8 score with the extent of multi-territorial plaques and stenosis (P < 0.05). We also found the association between behavior LE8 score and the extent of multi-territorial stenosis (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The higher LE8 scores, indicating healthier lifestyle, were associated with lower presence and extent of atherosclerotic plaque and stenosis in southern Chinese adults. Prospective studies are needed to further validate these findings.
Investigating the association between metabolic syndrome conditions and perinatal mental illness: a national administrative claims study
Authors: Chhabria Karishma , Selvaraj Sudhakar , Refuerzo Jerrie , Truong Chau , Cazaban Cecilia Ganduglia
Published: June 2024

Background

Although the association between mental disorder and metabolic syndrome as a bidirectional relationship has been demonstrated, there is little knowledge of the cumulative and individual effect of these conditions on peripartum mental health. This study aims to investigate the association between metabolic syndrome conditions (MetS-C) and maternal mental illness in the perinatal period, while exploring time to incident mental disorder diagnosis in postpartum women.

Methods

This observational study identified perinatal women continuously enrolled 1 year prior to and 1 year post-delivery using Optum’s de-identified Clinformatics® Data Mart Database (CDM) from 2014 to 2019 with MetS-C i.e. obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, high triglycerides, or low HDL (1-year prior to delivery); perinatal comorbidities (9-months prior to and 4-month postpartum); and mental disorder (1-year prior to and 1-year post-delivery). Additionally, demographics and the number of days until mental disorder diagnosis were evaluated in this cohort. The analysis included descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression. MetS-C, perinatal comorbidities, and mental disorder were assessed using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth, and Tenth Revision diagnosis codes.

Results

372,895 deliveries met inclusion/exclusion criteria. The prevalence of MetS-C was 13.43%. Multivariable logistic regression revealed prenatal prevalence (1.64, CI = 1.59–1.70) and postpartum incident (1.30, CI = 1.25–1.34) diagnosis of mental health disorder were significantly higher in those with at least one MetS-C. Further, the adjusted odds of having postpartum incident mental illness were 1.51 times higher (CI = 1.39–1.66) in those with 2 MetS-C and 2.12 times higher (CI = 1.21–4.01) in those with 3 or more MetS-C. Young women (under the age of 18 years) were more likely to have an incident mental health diagnosis as opposed to other age groups. Lastly, time from hospital discharge to incident mental disorder diagnosis revealed an average of 157 days (SD = 103 days).

Conclusion

The risk of mental disorder (both prenatal and incident) has a significant association with MetS-C. An incremental relationship between incident mental illness diagnosis and the number of MetS-C, a significant association with younger mothers along with a relatively long period of diagnosis mental illness highlights the need for more screening and treatment during pregnancy and postpartum.
CircPAPPA2 plays a role in preeclampsia pathogenesis via regulation of the miR-942/miR-5006-3p
Authors: Liao Wenyan , Zeng Huan , Jiang Xinmiao , Deng Xin , Tu Shun , Lan Hui , Tang Lingling , Dong Weilei , Ding Chengming
Published: June 2024

CircRNAs are a class of endogenous non-coding RNAs implicated in the pathogenesis of many pregnancy related diseases, one of which is pre-eclampsia (PE). This study aims to investigate the role of CircPAPPA2 (circbase ID: hsa_circ_0015382) in regulating the migration and invasion of trophoblast cells. RNA sequencing was used to identify the differentially expressed circRNAs in placenta of PE and normal pregnant women. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to verify the expression of circPAPPA2 and two miRNAs (miR-942-5p, 5006-3p) in placenta of PE and normal pregnant women. CCK8 and transwell experiments were performed to assess the function of circPAPPA2 in PE development.The interaction between circPAPPA2 and miR-942-5p/miR-5006-3p was verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Finally, bioinformatics analyzed with gene ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of the target genes. The results showed that the expression of circPAPPA2 was increased in placenta of PE pregnant women. Also, circPAPPA2 impedes trophoblasts cell proliferation and invasion. Moreover, the expression of circPAPPA2 was positively correlated with systolic blood pressure and urine protein. In addition, circPAPPA2 serves as a sponge of miR-942-5p and miR-5006-3p. In conclusion, CircPAPPA2 regulates trophoblasts cell proliferation and invasion by mediating the miR-942/miR-5006-3p.
Dose escalation of tolinapant (ASTX660) in combination with standard radical chemoradiotherapy in cervical cancer : a study protocol for a phase 1b TiTE-CRM clinical trial (CRAIN) in UK secondary care centres
Authors: Hoskin Peter , Lee Marina , Dunkley Denise , Danh Mary , Wickens Robin , Saunders Geoff , Northey Josh , Crabb Simon , McFarlane Vicky , Sadozye Azmat , Cooper Rachel , Mathew Tony , Haslett Kate , Reeves Kim , Reed Rachel , Bigos Kamilla , Williams Kaye J. , Rowling Emily , Choudhury Ananya , Dancer Sonia , Smith Deb , Griffiths Gareth
Published: June 2024

Background

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women, with an estimated 342,000 deaths worldwide in 2020. Current standard of care in the UK for locally advanced cervical cancer is concurrent chemoradiotherapy with weekly cisplatin, yet 5-year overall survival rates are only 65% with a distant relapse rate of 50%. Inhibitors of Apoptosis Proteins (IAPs) are often overexpressed in cancer cells and associated with tumour progression and resistance to treatment. Tolinapant, developed by Astex Pharmaceuticals, is an IAP antagonist with an additional mechanism of action via down-regulation of NF-kB, an important regulator in cervical cancer. Preclinical studies performed using tolinapant in combination with cisplatin and radiotherapy showed inhibition of tumour growth and enhanced survival. There is therefore a strong rationale to combine tolinapant with chemoradiotherapy (CRT).

Methods

CRAIN is a phase Ib open-label, dose escalation study to characterise the safety, tolerability and initial evidence for clinical activity of tolinapant when administered in combination with cisplatin based CRT. Up to 42 patients with newly diagnosed cervix cancer will be recruited from six UK secondary care sites. The number of participants and the duration of the trial will depend on toxicities observed and dose escalation decisions, utilising a TiTE-CRM statistical design. Treatment will constist of standard of care CRT with 45 Gy external beam radiotherapy given in 25 daily fractions over 5 weeks with weekly cisplatin 40mg/m2. This is followed by brachytherapy for which common schedules will be 28 Gy in 4 fractions high-dose-rate or 34 Gy in 2 fractions pulsed-dose-rate. Tolinapant will be administered in fixed dose capsules taken orally daily for seven consecutive days as an outpatient on alternate weeks (weeks 1, 3, 5) during chemoradiation. Dose levels for tolinapant which will be assessed are: 60 mg; 90 mg (starting level); 120 mg; 150 mg; 180 mg. Escalation will be guided by emerging safety data and decisions by the Safety Review Committee.

Discussion

If this trial determines a recommended phase II dose and shows tolinapant to be safe and effective in combination with CRT, it would warrant future phase trials. Ultimately, we hope to provide a synergistic treatment option for these patients to improve outcome.

Trial registrations

EudraCT Number: 2021-006555-34 (issued 30th November 2021); ISRCTN18574865 (registered 30th August 2022).
Diagnostic accuracy and clinical value of [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-46 PET/CT for staging patients with ovarian cancer: study protocol for a prospective clinical trial
Authors: Bentestuen Morten , Ladekarl Morten , Knudsen Aage , Zacho Helle D.
Published: June 2024

Background

[18F]Fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) is recommended during diagnostic work-up for ovarian cancer; however, [18F]FDG PET has several inherent limitations. The novel oncologic PET-tracer fibroblast activation protein inhibitor (FAPI) has demonstrated promising results in multiple cancer types, including ovarian cancer, and could overcome the limitations of [18F]FDG PET; however, high-quality clinical studies are lacking. The primary objective of the present study is to compare the diagnostic accuracy of [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-46 PET/CT and [18F]FDG PET/CT in ovarian cancer patients and to investigate how this potential difference impacts staging and patient management.

Methods and design

Fifty consecutive ovarian cancer patients will be recruited from Aalborg University Hospital, Denmark. This study will be a single-center, prospective, exploratory clinical trial that adheres to the standards for reporting diagnostic accuracy studies (STARD). This study will be conducted under continuous Good Clinical Practice monitoring. The eligibility criteria for patients are as follows: (1) biopsy verified newly diagnosed ovarian cancer or a high risk of ovarian cancer and referred for primary staging with [18F]FDG PET/CT; and (2) resectable disease, i.e., candidate for primary debulking surgery or neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by interval debulking surgery. All recruited study subjects will undergo [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-46 PET/CT at primary staging, before primary debulking surgery or neoadjuvant chemotherapy (Group A + B), in addition to conventional imaging (including [18F]FDG PET/CT). Study subjects in Group B will undergo an additional [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-46 PET/CT following neoadjuvant chemotherapy prior to interval debulking surgery. The results of the study-related [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-46 PET/CTs will be blinded, and treatment allocation will be based on common clinical practice in accordance with current guidelines. The histopathology of surgical specimens will serve as a reference standard. A recruitment period of 2 years is estimated; the trial is currently recruiting.

Discussion

To our knowledge, this trial represents the largest, most extensive, and most meticulous prospective FAPI PET study conducted in patients with ovarian cancer thus far. This study aims to obtain a reliable estimation of the diagnostic accuracy of [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-46 PET/CT, shed light on the clinical importance of [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-46 PET/CT, and examine the potential applicability of [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-46 PET/CT for evaluating chemotherapy response.

Trial registration

clinicaltrials.gov: NCT05903807, 2nd June 2023; and euclinicaltrials.eu EU CT Number: 2023-505938-98-00, authorized 11th September 2023.