bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bifidobacterium longum JBLC-141 alleviates hypobaric hypoxia-induced intestinal barrier damage by attenuating inflammatory responses and oxidative stress
Authors: Li Xiang-Yang , Shang Jin , Wang Xiao-Juan , Ma Hui-Ping , Ren Long-Fei , Zhang Lei
Published: December 2024

Hypobaric hypoxia exposure occurs at high altitudes, including plateaus, and affects normal intestinal function and microbiota composition. Exposure induces an intestinal inflammatory response and oxidative stress injury, ultimately disrupting intestinal homeostasis and causing barrier damage. Thus, due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and intestinal microbiota-regulating properties, Bifidobacterium longum is a potentially effective probiotic intervention to protect the intestinal barrier during low-pressure hypoxia on plateaus. However, its mechanism of action is not fully defined. In this study, we investigate the mechanism by which B. longum intervenes in intestinal barrier damage caused by plateau low-pressure hypoxia. To this end, an in vivo model is established by exposing rats to a simulated low-pressure hypoxic plateau environment. The experimental rats were subsequently supplemented with a B. longum strain (JBLC-141) extracted from the feces of healthy adults in Bama, Guangxi. B. longum JBLC-141 mitigates the effects of plateau low-pressure hypoxia on the rat intestinal barrier. This is achieved by activating the intestinal Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) pathway, alleviating plateau hypoxia-induced intestinal oxidative stress injury. B. longum JBLC-141 also attenuates the inflammatory response and upregulates the expression of the tight junction proteins claudin-1, occludin, and zonula occludens-1. Furthermore, it reduces intestinal permeability, effectively ameliorating and repairing the barrier histological damage induced by the plateau low-pressure hypoxic environment. In addition, B. longum JBLC-141 positively regulates the intestinal microbiota, increasing the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria while reducing that of pathogenic bacteria and maintaining intestinal flora homeostasis in rats.
Antifungal peptides from living organisms
Authors: Gong Yi , Xue Qunhang , Li Jun , Zhang Shicui
Published: December 2024

In the post-COVID-19 era, people are increasingly concerned about microbial infections, including fungal infections that have risen in recent years. However, the currently available antifungal agents are rather limited. Worse still, the widespread use of the antifungal agents has caused the emergence of antifungal resistance in Candida, Cryptococcus, and Aspergillus species. Therefore, the development of novel antifungals is urgently needed. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), as components of the first-line defense of the host, are found to exhibit broad antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, parasites, viruses, and protozoa. AMPs with antifungal activity are specifically referred to as antifungal peptides (AFPs). AFPs are currently regarded as the most promising alternative to conventional antifungal agents due to the fact that they are highly selective and less prone to facilitate the selection of drug resistance. In this review, we present an overview of the origin and classification of natural AFPs as well as their modes of action. Additionally, the production of natural, semisynthetic, and synthetic AFPs with a view to greater levels of exploitation is discussed. Finally, we evaluate the current and potential applications of AFPs in clinics and in the food industry.
Analysis of changes and influencing factors of stablization treatment effects and bioavailability after freeze-thaw: a case study of Pb-contaminated soil in a non-ferrous metal factory in Northeast China
Authors: Hao Wangwang , Wang Dongdong , Yu Miao , Cai Yun , Wang Yu
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Solidification/Stabilization techniques are commonly used for the containment and isolation of Pb-contaminated soil, but they cannot reduce the amount of contaminants. Freeze – thaw after stabilization may affect Pb’s environmental behavior and increase the uncertainty of environmental risk.

Methods

In vitro experiments can simulate the bioavailability of heavy metals to the human body, accurately assessing their environmental health risks. In this study, soil samples from Pbcontaminated site are collected from a non-ferrous metal plant in Northeastern China. Through the results of stabilization and freeze–thaw after stabilization experiments, analyzing the changes of physicochemical property, Pb treatment effects (total concentration, leaching concentration, and occurrence forms) and microbial communities, and studying the influencing factors of Pb’s bioavailability.

Result and discussion

The results show that stabilization and freeze – thaw after stabilization directly alter soil physicochemical property, thereby affecting the leaching and occurrence form of Pb and microbial communities, and closely related to changes in bioavailability of Pb. Both stabilization and freeze–thaw treatment reduced the leaching concentration of Pb, decreased the proportion of available Pb (acid-soluble state, oxidation state and reduction state), increased the bioavailability of Pb in the gastric phase, but decreased in the intestinal phase; And the dominant bacterial phylum in the soil changed to Firmicutes, the dominant bacterial genus changed to Bacillus; The analysis of the results shows that the bioavailability of Pb is related to soil pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), soil organic matter (SOM), soil moisture content (SMC), Pb (leaching, acid soluble state, oxidation state, residual state), types of microorganisms in soil.
Blue light-induced phototoxicity in retinal cells: implications in age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Chakravarthy Harshini , Georgyev Vasil , Wagen Cole , Hosseini Amir , Matsubara Joanne
Published: December 2024

Sunlight exposure is recognized as a risk factor for the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a common neurodegenerative retinal disease in the elderly. Specifically, the blue light wavelengths within sunlight can negatively impact the physiology of light-sensitive retinal cells, including retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptors. This review explores blue light-induced retinal degeneration, emphasizing the structural and functional impairments in RPE. The initial section provides a brief overview of blue light’s effects on photoreceptors, followed by a comprehensive analysis of its detrimental impact on RPE. In vitro studies reveal that blue light exposure induces morphological alterations and functional impairments in RPE, including reduced phagocytic activity, disrupted secretion of neurotrophic factors, and compromised barrier function. Mechanisms of retinal damage, including oxidative stress, inflammation, lipofuscin accumulation, mitochondrial dysfunction and ER stress in RPE, are also explored. The strengths and limitations of in vitro, animal and ex vivo models for studying blue light exposure are discussed, with recommendations for improving reproducibility in future studies.
Mitochondrial dysfunction and Alzheimer’s disease: pathogenesis of mitochondrial transfer
Authors: Wei Yun , Du Xinlei , Guo Hongling , Han Jingjing , Liu Meixia
Published: December 2024

In recent years, mitochondrial transfer has emerged as a universal phenomenon intertwined with various systemic physiological and pathological processes. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a multifactorial disease, with mitochondrial dysfunction at its core. Although numerous studies have found evidence of mitochondrial transfer in AD models, the precise mechanisms remain unclear. Recent studies have revealed the dynamic transfer of mitochondria in Alzheimer’s disease, not only between nerve cells and glial cells, but also between nerve cells and glial cells. In this review, we explore the pathways and mechanisms of mitochondrial transfer in Alzheimer’s disease and how these transfer activities contribute to disease progression.
Edge-guided feature fusion network for RGB-T salient object detection
Authors: Chen Yuanlin , Sun Zengbao , Yan Cheng , Zhao Ming
Published: December 2024

Introduction

RGB-T Salient Object Detection (SOD) aims to accurately segment salient regions in both visible light and thermal infrared images. However, many existing methods overlook the critical complementarity between these modalities, which can enhance detection accuracy.

Methods

We propose the Edge-Guided Feature Fusion Network (EGFF-Net), which consists of cross-modal feature extraction, edge-guided feature fusion, and salience map prediction. Firstly, the cross-modal feature extraction module captures and aggregates united and intersecting information in each local region of RGB and thermal images. Then, the edge-guided feature fusion module enhances the edge features of salient regions, considering that edge information is very helpful in refining significant area details. Moreover, a layer-by-layer decoding structure integrates multi-level features and generates the prediction of salience maps.

Results

We conduct extensive experiments on three benchmark datasets and compare EGFF-Net with state-of-the-art methods. Our approach achieves superior performance, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed modules in improving both detection accuracy and boundary refinement.

Discussion

The results highlight the importance of integrating cross-modal information and edge-guided fusion in RGB-T SOD. Our method outperforms existing techniques and provides a robust framework for future developments in multi-modal saliency detection.
The role of microglia in Neuroinflammation associated with cardiopulmonary bypass
Authors: Meng Lingda , Gu Tianxiang , Yu Peng , Zhang Zhiwei , Wei Zhijing
Published: December 2024

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) are indispensable core techniques in cardiac surgery. Numerous studies have shown that cardiopulmonary bypass and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest are associated with the occurrence of neuroinflammation, accompanied by the activation of microglia. Microglia, as macrophages in the central nervous system, play an irreplaceable role in neuroinflammation. Current research on neuroinflammation induced by microglia activation mainly focuses on neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, neuropathic pain, acquired brain injury, and others. However, there is relatively limited research on microglia and neuroinflammation under conditions of cardiopulmonary bypass and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest. The close relationship between cardiopulmonary bypass, deep hypothermic circulatory arrest, and cardiac surgery underscores the importance of identifying targets for intervening in neuroinflammation through microglia. This could greatly benefit cardiac surgery patients during cardiopulmonary bypass and the perioperative period, significantly improving patient prognosis. This review article provides the first comprehensive discussion on the signaling pathways associated with neuroinflammation triggered by microglia activation, the impact of cardiopulmonary bypass on microglia, as well as the current status and advancements in cardiopulmonary bypass animal models. It provides new insights and methods for the treatment of neuroinflammation related to cardiopulmonary bypass and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest, holding significant importance for clinical treatment by cardiac surgeons, management strategies by cardiopulmonary bypass physicians, and the development of neurologically related medications.
The healthy eating movement on social media and its psychological effects on body image
Authors: Zaharia Alina , Gonța Iulia
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The present study aims to investigate the relationship between social-media pressure, the tendency to internalize standards of beauty and attractiveness associated with thin bodies, which subsequently leads to distortion of body shape perceptions, and restrictive and emotional eating behavior disorders.

Methods

A survey-based research design was employed, utilizing an online questionnaire to collect data. The study sample consisted of 614 students, selected from the most prestigious universities in Bucharest. The questionnaire incorporated validated scales measuring Socio-Media Pressure for a Thin Body Image (SMPTB), Body Appreciation (BA), Body Shape Perception (BSP), Restrained Eating Behavior (REB), and Emotional Eating Behavior (EEB).

Results

The results confirmed the hypotheses of the research, meaning food restrictions are a way to diminish the level of dissatisfaction with body shape, to reduce the difference between the ideal body shape and the real one. Food restrictions are perceived as natural behaviors, appropriate to support the standards of beauty and attractiveness specific to this historical stage. Emotional eating disorders emerge as a way to compensate for the discomfort generated by low body esteem.

Discussion

The results underscore the pervasive influence of social media in shaping eating behaviors and body image perceptions. Food restrictions, framed as natural responses to societal pressures, highlight the need for interventions addressing the normalization of harmful beauty standards. Emotional eating behaviors reveal the psychological toll of body dissatisfaction, emphasizing the importance of strategies to foster positive body image and mental well-being. These findings provide a foundation for developing educational campaigns and therapeutic approaches targeting the psychological impact of social media on eating behaviors.
The establishment of PD-1 inhibitor treatment prognosis model based on dynamic changes of peripheral blood indexes in patients with advanced lung squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Xie Yuyan , Sun Hao , Shan Liying , Ma Xin , Sun Qingyu , Liu Fang
Published: December 2024

Background

Unlike patients with lung adenocarcinoma, patients with lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) do not derive significant benefits from targeted therapy. In recent years, immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment approach for LUSC. However, not all patients with this type of cancer respond to immunotherapy, necessitating the identification of effective biomarkers to predict survival prognosis and evaluate the efficacy of PD-1 inhibitors.

Materials and methods

We retrospectively collected case and hematologic data from 212 patients with advanced squamous lung cancer who received PD-1 combination therapy. Hematological indices mainly contained SCC, CEA, NSE, Hb, LDH, WBC and RBC at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks of treatment. All patients underwent imaging examinations and efficacy was evaluated according to RECIST1.1 criteria. Univariate tests were used to assess the relationship between changes in serum biomarkers, clinical characteristics and treatment outcome. The survival prognosis of patients was investigated by telephone follow-up. The optimal critical values of all hematological indicators were calculated by ROC curves, and then logistic regression and Cox regression were used to analyze multiple serum markers in relation to efficacy and survival prognosis, respectively. Finally, column line plots were constructed and validated to predict the probability of patient survival.

Results

Post-treatment RBC12w<3.81 × 10 12/L (p < 0.034) was associated with lower ORR, and WBC6w<9.34 × 109/L (p=0.041) was associated with higher DCR.SCC12w≥2.25 ng/mL (p = 0.015), NSE6w≥13.54 ng/mL(p = 0.044)and RBC0w≥4.2 × 10 9/L (p = 0.003) were independent predictors of PFS. SCC12w≥2.25 ng/mL (p < 0.001) and NSE6w≥13.54ng/mL(p = 0.042) were independent predictor of OS. Patients in the SCC12w≥2.25 ng/mL (HR = 1.943,95% CI:1.218-3.079 vs. HR = 2.161,95%CI:1.087-3.241) and NSE6w≥13.54 ng/mL (HR = 1.657,95% CI:1.118-2.535 vs. HR = 2.064,95% CI:1.569-4.169) groups had shorter PFS and OS. In subgroup analysis, patients with stage III advanced squamous lung cancer had a better pro-gnosis than those with stage IV. PD-L1-positive, and SCC12w ≥2.25 ng/mL had a worse prognosis. The results of constructing column-line plots for predicting the survival probability of 1-, 3-, and 5-year PFS and OS: The C-index and 95% CI for PFS and OS of column-line plots were 0.725 (95% CI: 0.478-1.928) and 0.755 (95% CI: 0.642-0.868), respectively, and the bootstrap correction showed a good consistency of the column-line plots.

Conclusion

Changes in RBC12w ≥3.81×1012/L, WBC6w ≥9.34×10 9/L, SCC12w ≥2.25 ng/mL, and NSE6w ≥13.54 ng/mL after treatment are prognostic indicators of immunotherapy in patients with advanced squamous lung cancer.
Design and dosimetric characterization of a transportable proton minibeam collimation system
Authors: Ahmed Mabroor , Beyreuther Elke , Gantz Sebastian , Horst Felix , Meyer Juergen , Pawelke Jörg , Schmid Thomas E. , Stolz Jessica , Wilkens Jan J. , Bartzsch Stefan
Published: December 2024

Background

Proton Minibeam Radiation Therapy has shown to widen the therapeutic window compared to conventional radiation treatment in pre-clinical studies. The underlying biological mechanisms, however, require more research.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to develop and characterize a mechanical collimation setup capable of producing 250µm wide proton minibeams with a center-to-center distance of 1000µm.

Methods

To find the optimal arrangement Monte Carlo simulations were employed using the Geant4 toolkit TOPAS to maximize key parameters such as the peak-to-valley dose ratio (PVDR) and the valley dose rate. The experimental characterization of the optimized setup was carried out with film dosimetry at the University Proton Therapy beamline in Dresden and the proton beamline of the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle with 150MeV and 50.5MeV, respectively. A microDiamond detector (PTW, Freiburg, Germany) was utilized at both beamlines for online proton minibeam dosimetry.

Results

A PVDR of 10 was achieved in Dresden and a PVDR of 14 in Seattle. Dosimetry measurements were carried out with EBT3 films at a depth of 5mm in a polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) phantom. When comparing film dosimetry with the microDiamond, excellent agreement was observed in the valleys. However, the peak dose showed a discrepancy of approximately 10% in the 150MeV beam and 20% in the 50.5MeV beam between film and microDiamond.

Discussion

The characteristics of the minibeams generated with our system compares well with those of other collimated minibeams despite being smaller. The deviations of microDiamond measurements from film readings might be subject to the diamond detector responding differently in the peak and valley regions. Applying previously reported correction factors aligns the dose profile measured by the microDiamond with the profile acquired with EBT3 films in Dresden.

Conclusion

The novel proton minibeam system can be operated independently of specific beamlines. It can be transported easily and hence used for inter-institutional comparative studies. The quality of the minibeams allows us to perform in vitro and in vivo experiments in the future. The microDiamond was demonstrated to have great potential for online dosimetry for proton minibeams, yet requires more research to explain the observed discrepancies.
Increased ferritin, serum lactate dehydrogenase, and aspartate aminotransferase levels predict macrophage activation syndrome complicating systemic lupus erythematosus: a retrospective study
Authors: Liu Yingying , Pan Yuting , Jin Jing , Wang Panpan , Zhang Tonghao , Fan Zhidan , Yu Haiguo
Published: December 2024

Background

This study aimed to assess the diagnosis of macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) at the onset of active childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE), which is under-researched, and to compare the characteristics of cSLE with and without MAS, hypothesizing the existence of possible predictors of MAS in active cSLE.

Methods

This study enrolled 157 patients diagnosed with cSLE, with or without MAS, from Nanjing Medical University between January 2018 and May 2023. Data analysis was performed using an independent samples t-test or the Mann–Whitney U-test, the χ2 test, the Youden index to determine the optimal cutoff values for diagnosis, and binary logistic regression analysis to determine the predicted probability.

Results

Fifteen patients (9%) had MAS in the active phase, with an SLE disease activity index of 16.6 (range, 6–32). Bone marrow aspirations revealed hemophagocytosis in 8/15 cases (53%). Fever was the most common feature of MAS patients. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and ferritin levels were elevated in the patients. Lower leukocyte, neutrophil, and platelet counts, including serum sodium and fibrinogen, and increased alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), ferritin, triglyceride, and D-dimer levels occurred in MAS patients, unlike those without MAS. Optimal cutoff values for ferritin (≥607.35 ng/ml), LDH (≥424 U/L), and AST (≥61 U/L) were predictors of MAS occurrence in cSLE. No MAS patients experienced recurrence during an 18-month mean follow-up.

Conclusions

Despite the narrow scope of the study, elevated levels of ferritin, LDH, and AST may represent indicators of cSLE complicated by MAS. Early diagnosis and treatment may improve outcomes.
A real-world pharmacovigilance study of Sorafenib based on the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System
Authors: Zhang Dongdong , Cai Ying , Sun Yixin , Zeng Peiji , Wang Wei , Wang Wenhui , Jiang Xiaohua , Lian Yifan
Published: December 2024

Aims

The primary objective of this study was to closely monitor and identify adverse events (AEs) associated with Sorafenib, a pharmacological therapeutic agent used to treat hepatocellular carcinoma, renal cell carcinoma, and thyroid cancer. The ultimate goal was to optimize patient safety and provide evidence-based guidance for the appropriate use of this drug.

Methods

Reports from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database were comprehensively collected and analyzed, covering the first quarter of 2004 to the first quarter of 2024. Disproportionality analysis was performed using robust algorithms for effective data mining to quantify the signals associated with Sorafenib-related AEs.

Results

In total, we identifued 18,624 patients (82,857 AEs in the Sorafenib population) from the collected reports and examined, the occurrence of Sorafenib-induced AEs in 26 organ systems. The study results revealed the presence of the expected AEs, including Diarrhoea, Palmar-plantar erythrodysaesthesia syndrome, Hepatocellular carcinoma, Fatigue, and Rash, which was consistent with the information provided in the drug insert. In addition, unexpected significant AEs, such as Gait inability, Palmoplantar keratoderma and Hyperkeratosis were observed at the preferred term (PT) level. These findings suggest the potential occurrence of adverse reactions not currently documented in drug descriptions.

Conclusion

This study successfully detected new and unforeseen signals associated with Sorafenib-related AEs related to Sorafenib administration, providing important insights into the complex correlations between AEs and Sorafenib use. The results of this study emphasize the critical importance of continuous and vigilant surveillance for the timely identification and effective management of AEs to improve the overall patient safety and wellbeing in the context of Sorafenib therapy.
Anticoagulation approach in morbid obesity: a comprehensive review on venous thromboembolism management
Authors: Sorodoc Victorita , Asaftei Andreea , Ceasovschih Alexandr , Lionte Catalina , Crisan Simina , Constantin Mihai , Indrei Lucia , Sorodoc Laurentiu
Published: December 2024

Obesity is a recognized risk factor for venous thromboembolism (VTE), associated with distinct challenges in managing anticoagulation therapy. There is still limited evidence regarding the impact of extreme body weight on the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, efficacy, and safety of various anticoagulant medications. To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive review to address both prophylactic and therapeutic anticoagulant dosages specifically for managing VTE in patients with a body mass index (BMI) ≥40 kg/m2 or weight ≥120 kg. Our aim was to synthesize the findings of relevant studies alongside the latest recommendations on anticoagulation in this unique population. We gathered and analyzed data on all classes of anticoagulants available for VTE management, including vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), unfractionated heparin (UFH), low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH), fondaparinux, and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), offering insights into their efficacy and safety profiles. Additionally, we explored special subpopulations of morbidly obese patients, such as those with cancer, renal dysfunction, or those undergoing bariatric surgery, recognizing the nuanced therapeutic challenges they present. The current evidence for anticoagulant therapy in morbidly obese patients with VTE is evidently insufficient, underscoring the need for a tailored approach and meticulous monitoring to achieve an optimal therapeutic balance.
Metformin’s effect on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease through the miR-200a-5p and AMPK/SERCA2b pathway
Authors: Chen Hang , Huang Minshan , Zhang Dan , Wang Hui , Wang Da , Li Mengwei , Wang Xianmei , Zhu Rui , Liu Jianjun , Ma Lanqing
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Metformin has shown benefits in treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), but its mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigates miR-200a-5p’s role in the AMPK/SERCA2b pathway to reduce liver fat accumulation and ER stress in MASLD.

Methods

A PA cell model induced by palmitic and oleic acids (2:1) was used to assess lipid accumulation via Oil Red O and Nile Red staining. mRNA levels of miR-200a-5p and lipid metabolism genes were measured with RT-PCR, and AMPK, p-AMPK, and SERCA2b protein levels were analyzed by Western blotting. The interaction between miR-200a-5p and AMPK was studied using a luciferase reporter assay. A high-fat diet-induced MASLD mouse model was used to evaluate metformin’s effects on liver steatosis and lipid profiles. Serum miR-200a-5p levels were also analyzed in MASLD patients.

Results

In the PA cell model, elevated miR-200a-5p and lipid metabolism gene mRNA levels were observed, with decreased AMPK and SERCA2b protein levels. miR-200a-5p mimic reduced AMPK and SERCA2b expression. Metformin treatment reduced liver steatosis and lipid deposition in mice, normalizing miR-200a-5p, lipid metabolism gene mRNA, and AMPK/SERCA2b protein levels. Elevated serum miR-200a-5p was detected in MASLD patients.

Discussion

These findings suggest that metformin alleviates lipid deposition and ER stress in MASLD through the modulation of the AMPK/SERCA2b pathway via miR-200a-5p.
Overview of satellite nav spoofing and anti-spoofing techniques
Authors: Lu Cheng , Lu Zukun , Liu Zhe , Huang Long , Chen Feiqiang
Published: December 2024

In recent years, satellite navigation systems have witnessed widespread adoption across diverse fields, including military surveillance, precision agriculture, traffic monitoring, resource exploration, and disaster assessment. However, navigation signals are susceptible to interference, with deceptive interference posing the most significant threat to navigation systems. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of satellite navigation spoofing and anti-spoofing techniques. It reviews the current state of spoofing and anti-spoofing technologies, analyzing advancements in spoofing techniques and the evolution of countermeasures. Furthermore, the paper elaborates on the impact of spoofing interference on receiver performance, examining its effects on positioning, timing, and velocity estimations. A detailed analysis of various anti-spoofing methods is presented, categorizing them into detection, identification, suppression, and localization techniques. This review aims to provide a thorough understanding of the evolving landscape of satellite navigation spoofing and anti-spoofing technologies, fostering further research and development efforts to ensure the integrity and resilience of satellite navigation systems in the face of sophisticated threats.
Genome-wide association study reveals heat tolerance QTL for canopy-closure and early flowering in chickpea
Authors: Jeffrey Cara , Kaiser Brent , Trethowan Richard , Ziems Laura
Published: December 2024

Chickpeas are a vital source of protein and starch for a large portion of the world’s population and are known to be impacted by heat stress at every life stage. Previously known as an “Orphan Legume”, little is known of the genetic control of heat stress tolerance, and most previous research has focused on heat avoidance rather than tolerance. This study utilised a population of 148 chickpea genotypes, primarily Kabulis, in 12 field trials conducted at 2 locations, two sowing periods, and across 3 years. Physiology was examined, and data was paired with Diversity Arrays Technology (DArT) sequencing to perform a Genome Wide Association Study to connect phenotypic and genotypic regions. Fourteen QTL related to yield, seed size, time to flowering, time to maturity, and final canopy closure were found. Among these, are the first Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) ever identified for canopy closure in chickpea, along with a QTL that is likely linked to early flowering under heat stress. Early flowering in this case refers to a cultivar flowering significantly earlier than the others in the genotype set. Additionally, several other QTL provide validation of previous research. These QTL hotspots that can be targeted for selective breeding of several traits concurrently. Overall, new targets for genome assisted breeding for heat tolerance in chickpea were identified and can be utilised by the breeder community to improve the status of selective breeding for heat tolerance in this crop.
Do plant biostimulants affect the survival of Escherichia coli in lettuce?
Authors: Fiore Leonardo , Cardarelli Mariateresa , Ruzzi Maurizio , Ficca Anna Grazia , Rouphael Youssef , Luziatelli Francesca , Colla Giuseppe
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Considering that plant biostimulants can be sprayed multiple times on leafy crops even just before harvest, it is relevant to know the impact of biostimulant applications on Escherichia coli population dynamics of lettuce leaves to ensure food safety. Two trials were carried out to investigate whether the applications of a seaweed extract and a vegetal-derived protein hydrolysate (PH) could affect the E. coli growth in shake flasks (Exp. 1) and plant growth and survival of artificially inoculated E. coli on the leaf surface of lettuce grown in a floating system (Exp. 2).

Methods

The non-pathogenic E. coli strain K12 was used in both trials. In Exp. 1, biostimulants’ inhibitory/stimulatory effect on E. coli growth was evaluated in liquid culture after 24 hours of incubation at 37°C. The 31-day agronomic trial (Exp. 2) was conducted in a polyethylene greenhouse on lettuce grown in a floating system.

Results

In Exp. 1, E. coli growth was not affected by LB medium amended with biostimulants, whereas both biostimulants stimulated total aerobic bacteria and inhibited E. coli population on lettuce leaves with a more pronounced inhibitory effect of PH applications on E. coli (Exp. 2). Total plant biomass and its partitioning (on fresh and dry weight basis), and N concentrations (as total N and nitrates) of leaves were not influenced by both biostimulant treatments.

Conclusion

The use of plant biostimulants could be a valuable and sustainable strategy to improve the microbiological quality of leafy greens to produce ready-to-eat foods.
Mechanism of abscisic acid in promoting softening of postharvest ‘Docteur Jules Guyot’ pear (Pyrus communis L.)
Authors: Xu Xiaofei , Zhu Xinxin , Jiang Fudong , Li Qingyu , Zhang Aidi , Zhang Hongxia , Li Jianzhao
Published: December 2024

Abscisic acid (ABA) is a key hormone in plant growth and development, playing a central role in responses to various biotic and abiotic stresses as well as in fruit ripening. The present study examined the impact of ABA and nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) on various postharvest ‘Docteur Jules Guyot’ pear fruit characteristics, including firmness, pectinase activity, pectin content, volatile aromatic substances, and the expression of correlated genes. The results showed that ABA quickly reduced fruit firmness, increasing the activity of pectin degradation-related enzymes. The contents of water-soluble pectin (WSP) and ionic-soluble pectin (ISP) increased, and covalent binding pectin (CBP) decreased under ABA treatment. Among the detected volatile aromatic substances, the highest-level substance of the fruit was ester, and the ABA treatment significantly promoted the amount of ester substances. The cell wall disassembly-related genes PcPME3, PcPG1, PcPG2, PcPL, PcARF2, and PcGAL1, as well as ABA biosynthesis-related genes PcNCED1 and PcNCED2, were also significantly induced by ABA. Conversely, all these genes were repressed in the NDGA treatment group. Therefore, it was speculated that ABA may promote the softening of postharvest European pear fruit by affecting the activity of pectin degradation enzymes in fruit cell walls.
Measuring dynamic emotional experiences in response to media stimuli
Authors: Winkler Julia R. , Appel Markus
Published: December 2024

Communication research has long recognized the dynamic nature of most media stimuli and the corresponding dynamic emotional processing implied on the side of the audience. Capturing and analyzing these emotional dynamics during media reception is imperative for advancing our understanding of media processing and effects, but is not common practice in most communication research. This article highlights several methodological approaches to measuring the physiological, behavioral, and experiential components of emotions during media exposure: Electrodermal activity, automated facial expression analysis, continuous response measurement, and self-probed emotional retrospections. We discuss these methods in terms of what they measure, their practical application to different research contexts, and aspects of data-analysis. We further highlight ways to adapt and apply these methods to advance research on hot topics in communication science, psychology, and related fields and provide recommendations for scholars who wish to integrate continuous measures of emotional responses into their research.
An eco-psychological framework for research on the physical environment of childcare classrooms and children’s play behavior
Authors: Deng Chenhao , Zhao Zhiyi , Ahmad Noorhani Nur maizura , Mustapha Arniatul Aiza
Published: December 2024

Ecological psychology is an approach focused on the perception and behavior of organisms and environments, offering psychological insights for research on children. This study primarily explored the concepts of affordance and behavior setting based on an eco-psychological perspective concerning children’s behaviors and environment. Through a review of previous studies, we differentiated that affordance theory emphasizes children’s direct perceptions of environmental functions, whereas the concept of behavior setting highlights the dyadic relationship between long-term behaviors and environmental material features. However, existing studies on child–environment interactions often overlook children’s immediate actions in the context of affordance theory and fail to account for the dynamic nature of behavior settings. By integrating the distinctive traits of both theories, this study proposes an anticipatory framework based on ecological psychology to guide research on children’s environments, particularly within the indoor spaces of childcare facilities. Future studies should investigate the connections within this framework through field studies of childcare center environments and observations of children’s actions and behaviors during free play to assess congruence with environmental affordances.
Contributions of hemispheric dynamics in visual word recognition: uncovering familiarity effects through lateralized priming
Authors: Kim Sangyub , Nam Kichun
Published: December 2024

Introduction

This investigation aimed to explore interhemispheric interactions in visual word processing with a focus on proficiency development. Given the asymmetrical specialization in visual word processing across hemispheres, the study hypothesized that the primary hemisphere predominantly regulates interhemispheric interactions. The familiarity effect, serving as a measure of visual word processing proficiency, was examined to determine how proficiency influences these interactions.

Methods

A primed-lateralized lexical decision task with a stimulus onset asynchrony (SOA) of 100 ms was employed. The task involved presenting primes and targets in parafoveal visual fields (left visual field/right visual field) to assess behavioral responses. By manipulating prime and target visual field locations, the study aimed to evaluate both inter- and intrahemispheric interactions during visual word processing.

Results

The findings revealed a significant interhemispheric familiarity effect in response times when the left visual field (LVF)/right hemisphere (RH) served as the prime and the right visual field (RVF)/left hemisphere (LH) as the target. Additionally, a significant intrahemispheric familiarity effect was observed within the LVF/RH condition, suggesting a prominent role of the RH in visual-perceptual processing during the development of visual word recognition proficiency.

Discussion

These results provide compelling evidence for asymmetric specialization between the hemispheres in visual word processing. The significant inter- and intrahemispheric familiarity effects underscore the importance of RH visual-perceptual processing in proficiency development. These insights enhance our understanding of interhemispheric dynamics in the evolution of visual word recognition proficiency, highlighting the complex coordination between hemispheres in facilitating fluent visual word processing.
Needs assessment of people living with cognitive impairment/dementia, a requirement of comprehensive psychogeriatric assessment and person-centered care. Empirical validation of the model in a community study
Authors: Vicente-Alba Javier , Gutiérrez-Botella Jesús , García-Mahía Carmen , Mateos Raimundo
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Cognitive impairment and dementia are part of a continuum that progressively leads to functional impairment and dependency. Dementia is a paradigmatic example of chronic and complex psychogeriatric diseases, requiring a comprehensive assessment. The authors underline the importance of implementing a formal assessment of needs (whether met or unmet) as an essential element of comprehensive assessment. The aim of this paper is to empirically validate this model of approach towards dementia, the needs assessment, demonstrating the relationship between needs and functionality/dependency in people with cognitive impairment/dementia in the community.

Material and methods

Community-based, cross-sectional, descriptive epidemiological study based on the reanalysis of data from a two-phase community epidemiological study conducted in Santiago de Compostela, Spain, of 800 people over 65 years of age. The present study reanalyzes a subsample of 368 people, including those with dementia/cognitive impairment. The comprehensive assessment of the sample included sociodemographic variables, the presence of chronic diseases, health self-perception, assessment of affective, cognitive and functional state, as well as the needs assessment. The main instruments used were the MMSE, the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), the Barthel and Katz Indices, the Lawton Scale, and, for the needs assessment, the Camberwell Assessment of Need for the Elderly (CANE). For the clinical diagnosis of dementia, the ICD-10 criteria were followed. Statistical analysis: A study of the association between variables was carried out through hypothesis testing and a multivariate study was performed using regression models to analyze the relationship between the different variables defining disability/dependency, other health conditions and sociodemographic variables and the MMSE score as an expression of the cognitive impairment/dementia continuum.

Results

People with cognitive impairment/dementia had a higher number of needs compared to the healthy population. The severity of cognitive impairment is a significant predictor of dependency in Basic Activities of Daily Living (BADL) and is also a predictor of a greater number of needs (both met and unmet).

Discussion

The present study provides empirical evidence of the importance of implementing scales to assess the needs of people with cognitive impairment, as part of the process of comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment and person-centered care for dementia.
Outpatient group therapy for post-COVID patients - a naturalistic feasibility study of a face-to-face and online group concept
Authors: Zimmermann-Schlegel Verena , Gronewold Nadine , Stengel Sandra , Hartmann Mechthild , Merle Uta , Friederich Hans-Christoph , Ditzen Beate , Tesarz Jonas
Published: December 2024

Background

A significant number of individuals diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 continue to suffer from persistent symptoms, a condition commonly referred to as Post-COVID syndrome (PCS). The most common manifestations are fatigue, post-exertional malaise, respiratory problems and cognitive deficits due to the lack of a causal treatment, therapeutic options remain symptom oriented. The aim of this study was to develop a low-threshold group therapy concept for patients with PCS and to test its feasibility in face-to-face and online format.

Method

An interprofessionally oriented group therapy concept for patients with PCS was developed and a treatment manual was established. The concept comprises eight weekly sessions of 90 minutes each, during which the management of fatigue, stress intolerance and other symptoms are addressed and coping strategies are discussed and developed. The group therapy was conducted alternating in face-to-face and online format and evaluated via questionnaires.

Results

A total of 57 patients, most of them with severe limitations due to PCS, took part in the groups (n=36 online; n=21 face-to-face). The group offer was requested and accepted in both the face-to-face and online formats, and was predominantly evaluated as beneficial. Of particularly value was the opportunity to engage with peers who share similar experiences.

Conclusion

The interprofessional, integrative psychotherapeutic/psychoeducational group therapy is safe, accepted and is predominantly rated as helpful by participants. It should be carried out in online formats for patients with PCS who are limited in mobility. Controlled studies are necessary to further evaluate the proposed concept and its integration into the care landscape.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice toward foodborne disease among Chinese college students: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Ma Xingming , Bo Li , Zhou Xinmiao
Published: December 2024

Background

More than 200 diseases are caused by eating food contaminated and the burden of foodborne disease is considered to be high worldwide. Foodborne diseases are an important public health issue, and the knowledge, attitudes and practices among college students are crucial in preventing outbreaks.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the current knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward foodborne diseases among Chinese college students and to identify the factors influencing practice actions.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to November in 2023. A cluster random sampling method was used to enroll participants at Xihua University. The questionnaire including 47 items was used to collect the foodborne diseases information. An offline questionnaire was used to generate the surveys. Multiple linear regression was used to analyze the factors associated with foodborne disease knowledge, attitudes and practices.

Results

A total of 445 college students with a mean age of 19.76 ± 1.24 years were included in the study. The majority of participants were female (59.1%), of Han Chinese (95.1%), and nearly two-thirds were lower-year undergraduates (66.7%). Most participants (78.9%) were non-medical students, and 64.7% of participants were from rural areas. The KAP score of foodborne diseases was 79.21 ± 6.84. The knowledge, attitudes, and practices scores toward foodborne diseases were 8.76 ± 0.95, 10.50 ± 1.63, and 59.94 ± 6.48, respectively. In particular, there was a notable decrease in practice scores toward foodborne diseases among male students, ethnic minority students, and non-medical students. The significant predictors of practices were included gender (β = 0.11, p < 0.05), nationality (β = −0.12, p < 0.05), specialization type (β = −0.13, p < 0.05), residence (β = −0.11, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

These results revealed gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding foodborne diseases, and the knowledge was at an insufficient level, the attitude was positive and practice was at a moderate and acceptable level. In general, the level of KAP was at a moderate and acceptable level. Gender, nationality, education level, specialization type, and residence were identified as crucial influencers on practices toward foodborne diseases. It is necessary to provide foodborne disease health education targeting this population in western areas, which can help improve students’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices.
Lactate dehydrogenase to albumin ratio (LAR) is a novel predictor of fatal outcome in patients with SFTS: an observational study
Authors: Meng Tao , Ding Wenqian , Lv Dongmei , Wang Chenxu , Xu Yuanhong
Published: December 2024

Background

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is a serious infectious disease. This study explored the prognostic value of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) to albumin (ALB) ratio (LAR) levels in fatal outcomes of the disease.

Methods

Two-hundred and nine patients with SFTS were enrolled in this study. Based on the prognosis, patients were divided into survival and deceased groups. Laboratory metrics were compared by univariate Cox regression and multivariate Cox regression analyses. The prognostic risk factors for SFTS disease were discussed, and the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve and the Kaplan–Meier survival curve were plotted to analyze the predictive value of independent risk factors on disease prognosis.

Results

A total of 209 patients with SFTS, including 152 in the survival group and 57 in the death group, were enrolled. The median age of 209 SFTS patients was 64 years. Three indicators, age, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and LAR, were identified as predictors of mortality in patients with SFTS. The area under the ROC curve of LAR was the highest (0.835), followed by that of AST (0.794), and age (0.720). The Kaplan–Meier survival curve showed an increased case fatality rate, of >1.4691, in patients with LAR.

Conclusion

Elevated LAR level on admission is an independent risk factor for fatal outcomes in patients with SFTS; this can help healthcare professionals identify patients with SFTS having a high risk of fatal outcomes.