bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The structure and in vitro starch digestibility of wheat starch-glycerol monopalmitin complexes: the effect of heating conditions and water content
Authors: Jiao Fengping , Liu Zesong , Ni Jing , Yu Jinglin , Wang Shujun , Liu Xia
Published: November 2023

The effects of the heating conditions and water content on the structure and digestibility of wheat starch (WS)-glycerol monopalmitin (GMP) complexes were investigated. The results showed that the higher water content and the heating conditions of 90°C for 60 min after 100°C for 10 min favor the formation of more WS-GMP complexes with the greater short-range order, although the thermal transition temperatures of GWS-GMP-100 complexes are not significantly affected by the water content. Only the type I complexes were formed under the heating conditions of 90°C for 60 min. The heating conditions of 90°C for 60 min after 100°C for 10 min facilitates the formation of type II complexes, and the amounts of type II complexes increased with increasing water content. The digestion rates of WS-GMP complexes decreased slightly with increasing water content, and the extent of starch amylolysis of WS-GMP complexes significantly decreased after heating further at 90°C compared with that only heating at 100°C. The digestibility of complexes is mainly related to structural order rather than the number of complexes. This study is helpful to further understand starch-lipid complexes by showing that heating conditions and water content influence the formation of WS-GMP complexes.
Single energy CT-based mass density and relative stopping power estimation for proton therapy using deep learning method
Authors: Gao Yuan , Chang Chih-Wei , Roper Justin , Axente Marian , Lei Yang , Pan Shaoyan , Bradley Jeffrey D. , Zhou Jun , Liu Tian , Yang Xiaofeng
Published: November 2023

Background

The number of patients undergoing proton therapy has increased in recent years. Current treatment planning systems (TPS) calculate dose maps using three-dimensional (3D) maps of relative stopping power (RSP) and mass density. The patient-specific maps of RSP and mass density were obtained by translating the CT number (HU) acquired using single-energy computed tomography (SECT) with appropriate conversions and coefficients. The proton dose calculation uncertainty of this approach is 2.5%-3.5% plus 1 mm margin. SECT is the major clinical modality for proton therapy treatment planning. It would be intriguing to enhance proton dose calculation accuracy using a deep learning (DL) approach centered on SECT.

Objectives

The purpose of this work is to develop a deep learning method to generate mass density and relative stopping power (RSP) maps based on clinical single-energy CT (SECT) data for proton dose calculation in proton therapy treatment.

Methods

Artificial neural networks (ANN), fully convolutional neural networks (FCNN), and residual neural networks (ResNet) were used to learn the correlation between voxel-specific mass density, RSP, and SECT CT number (HU). A stoichiometric calibration method based on SECT data and an empirical model based on dual-energy CT (DECT) images were chosen as reference models to evaluate the performance of deep learning neural networks. SECT images of a CIRS 062M electron density phantom were used as the training dataset for deep learning models. CIRS anthropomorphic M701 and M702 phantoms were used to test the performance of deep learning models.

Results

For M701, the mean absolute percentage errors (MAPE) of the mass density map by FCNN are 0.39%, 0.92%, 0.68%, 0.92%, and 1.57% on the brain, spinal cord, soft tissue, bone, and lung, respectively, whereas with the SECT stoichiometric method, they are 0.99%, 2.34%, 1.87%, 2.90%, and 12.96%. For RSP maps, the MAPE of FCNN on M701 are 0.85%, 2.32%, 0.75%, 1.22%, and 1.25%, whereas with the SECT reference model, they are 0.95%, 2.61%, 2.08%, 7.74%, and 8.62%.

Conclusion

The results show that deep learning neural networks have the potential to generate accurate voxel-specific material property information, which can be used to improve the accuracy of proton dose calculation.

Advances in knowledge

Deep learning-based frameworks are proposed to estimate material mass density and RSP from SECT with improved accuracy compared with conventional methods.
Synergistic cytotoxicity of fludarabine, clofarabine, busulfan, vorinostat and olaparib in AML cells
Authors: Valdez Benigno C. , Yuan Bin , Murray David , Ramdial Jeremy Leon , Nieto Yago , Popat Uday , Tang Xiaowen , Andersson Borje S.
Published: November 2023

Combinations of nucleoside analog(s) and DNA alkylating agent(s) are used for cancer treatment as components of pre-transplant regimens used in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Their efficacies are enhanced by combining drugs with different mechanisms of action, which also allows a reduction in the individual drug dosages and thus potentially in toxicity to the patient. We hypothesized that addition of SAHA and olaparib, an HDAC- and a PARP-inhibitor, respectively, to the established combination of fludarabine, clofarabine and busulfan would enhance AML cell cytotoxicity. Exposure of the AML cell lines KBM3/Bu2506, MV4-11, MOLM14 and OCI-AML3 to the 5-drug combination resulted in synergistic cytotoxicity with combination indexes < 1. Increased protein acetylation and decreased poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation were observed, as expected. Activation of apoptosis was suggested by cleavage of Caspase 3 and PARP1, DNA fragmentation, increased reactive oxygen species, and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential. The reduction in poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation was independent of caspase activation. Several proteins involved in DNA damage response and repair were downregulated, which may be contributing factors for the observed synergism. The increased phosphorylation of DNAPKcs suggests inhibition of its kinase activity and diminution of its role in DNA repair. A similar synergism was observed in patient-derived cell samples. These findings will be important in designing clinical trials using these drug combinations as pre-transplant conditioning regimens for AML patients.
Association between increased C-reactive protein and cardiovascular disease among patients with rectal cancer
Authors: Qiao Huimin , Wang Changxin , Yang Chunhong , Lei Lei , Chen Yijing , Luo Yun , Zeng Xiangfu , Guo You
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the association between increased C-reactive protein (CRP) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in individuals with rectal cancer, as well as to understand the effect of chemotherapy for cancer on increasing CRP and its underlying mechanisms.

Patients and methods

From January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2020, individuals with rectal cancer were evaluated at the First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University. Then, in patients with rectal cancer, the relationship between increased CRP and CVD attributes was summarized, and the impact of chemotherapy on CRP levels was qualitatively assessed. For further investigation into potential regulatory mechanisms of CRP, differentially expressed genes (DEGs), GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were conducted.

Results

A total of 827 individuals were included in the study, including 175 with CVD (21.16%) and 652 without CVD. A significant association between increased CRP and CVD events was observed in rectal cancer patients (p < 0.01), and it significantly improved the classification performance of the CVD predictive model in the AUC (0.724 vs 0.707) and NRI (0.069, 95% CI 0.05-0.14). Furthermore, a comparison of CRP levels before and after chemotherapy revealed a significant increase among rectal cancers post-treatment (p < 0.001). Analysis of differentially expressed genes and co-expression indicated that 96 DEGs were involved in the pathophysiology of increased CRP after chemotherapy, and three hub genes were implicated in atherosclerotic susceptibility.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our findings indicated that increased CRP levels following chemotherapy profoundly impacted CVD events in individuals with rectal cancer, and may be beneficial in promoting CVD prediction in clinical practice.
Association of atopy with disease severity in children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia
Authors: Bian ChenRong , Li SongTao , Huo ShaoHu , Yang BeiBei , Wang PingPing , Li WenHong , Ding ShengGang
Published: November 2023

Background

Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) is common among children, but the impact of atopy on MPP severity in children is unknown. This study investigated whether atopic vs. nonatopic children had greater MPP severity.

Methods

Retrospective analysis was conducted on 539 (ages 3–14 years) patients who were hospitalized in the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University for MPP between January 2018 and December 2021, 195 were atopic and 344 were nonatopic. Of them, 204 had refractory MPP, and 335 had general MPP. And of atopic children, 94 had refractory MPP, and 101 had general MPP. Data on demographic and clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, clinical treatments were analyzed.

Results

Significantly more boys with MPP were atopic than nonatopic (P < 0.05). More atopic (than nonatopic) children presented with prolonged fever and hospitalization, severe extra-pulmonary complications, asthma attaking, steroid and oxygen treatment, and increased IgE levels (all P < 0.05). In atopic (vs. nonatopic) children with MPP, the incidence of sputum plugs under the fiberoptic bronchoscopy and lobar pneumonia was significantly increased and required bronchoscopy-assisted and steroid therapy. Compared with nonatopic children, more atopic children developed refractory MPP (P < 0.05). Prolonged fever and hospitalization, severe extra-pulmonary complications, lymphocyte count, procalcitonin and lactate dehydrogenase levels, and percentages of atopy were all significantly higher (P < 0.05) among children with refractory MPP vs. general MPP. Moreover, Prolonged fever and hospitalization, lymphocyte count, procalcitonin and lactate dehydrogenase levels, and the treantment of steroid were all significantly higher (P < 0.05) among atopic children with refractory MPP vs. general MPP. Spearman correlation analysis showed strong associations between atopy and male sex, length of hospital stay, fever duration, IgE level, wheezing, lobar pneumonia, refractory MPP, and treatment with oxygen, hormones or bronchoscopy (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Atopy may be a risk factor for and was positively correlated with the severity of MPP in children.
Gestational hypertension and risk of atopic diseases in offspring, a national-wide cohort study
Authors: Yang Chun-Ti , Lin Ching-Heng , Lin Ming-Chih
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Gestational hypertension can lead to complications, such as preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is one of leading causes of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Abnormal placentation, immune dysregulation, and maternal inflammatory response are possible etiologies. The burden of atopic diseases is increasing worldwide. Prenatal exposure might play a role in the pathogenesis of these two diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between gestational hypertension and atopic diseases from a nationwide perspective.

Material and methods

The primary data were retrieved from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database. The Maternal and Child Health Database was used to generate links between mothers and children. From 2004 to 2019, mothers with a diagnosis of gestational hypertension were identified as cases. The control groups were matched to the cases by maternal age, neonatal gender, date of birth, at a control-to-case ratio of 4:1. Each child was reviewed to confirm the diagnosis of atopic disease. Covariates including both maternal and neonatal factors were also collected.

Results

A total of 1,935,874 primiparas were enrolled in this study. After excluding 16,851 mothers with a history of hypertension, a total of 1,919,023 offspring were included in the study for the period 2004–2019. Gestational hypertension was associated with asthma (HR, 1.12, 95% CI, 1.02–1.23) and atopic dermatitis (HR, 1.10, 95% CI, 1.00–1.21) in offspring after controlling for cofactors. Nevertheless, gestational hypertension did not play an independent factor for allergic rhinitis (HR, 1.02, 95% CI, 0.95–1.10) or urticaria (HR, 1.02, 95% CI, 0.91–1.15).

Conclusion

Maternal gestational hypertension increases the cumulative risk for asthma and atopic dermatitis in offspring.
Functioning and mechanisms of PTMs in renal diseases
Authors: Liu Zhenzhen , Yang Jian , Du Minghui , Xin Wei
Published: November 2023

Post-translational modifications (PTMs) are crucial epigenetic mechanisms that regulate various cellular biological processes. The use of mass spectrometry (MS)-proteomics has led to the discovery of numerous novel types of protein PTMs, such as acetylation, crotonylation, 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation, β-hydroxybutyrylation, protein propionylation and butyrylation, succinylation, malonylation, lactylation, and histone methylation. In this review, we specifically highlight the molecular mechanisms and roles of various histone and some non-histone PTMs in renal diseases, including diabetic kidney disease. PTMs exhibit diverse effects on renal diseases, which can be either protective or detrimental, depending on the specific type of protein PTMs and their respective targets. Different PTMs activate various signaling pathways in diverse renal pathological conditions, which could provide novel insights for studying epigenetic mechanisms and developing potential therapeutic strategies for renal diseases.
Fluoxetine treatment during the postpartal period may have short-term impacts on murine maternal skeletal physiology
Authors: Fricke Hannah P. , Krajco Chandler J. , Perry Molly J. , Brettingen Lauren J. , Wake Lella A. , Charles Julia F. , Hernandez Laura L.
Published: November 2023

Postpartum depression affects many individuals after parturition, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are often used as the first-line treatment; however, both SSRIs and lactation are independently associated with bone loss due to the role of serotonin in bone remodeling. Previously, we have established that administration of the SSRI fluoxetine during the peripartal period results in alterations in long-term skeletal characteristics. In the present study, we treated mice with either a low or high dose of fluoxetine during lactation to determine the consequences of the perturbation of serotonin signaling during this time period on the dam skeleton. We found that lactational fluoxetine exposure affected both cortical and trabecular parameters, altered gene expression and circulating markers of bone turnover, and affected mammary gland characteristics, and that these effects were more pronounced in the dams that were exposed to the low dose of fluoxetine in comparison to the high dose. Fluoxetine treatment during the postpartum period in rodents had short term effects on bone that were largely resolved 3 months post-weaning. Despite the overall lack of long-term insult to bone, the alterations in serotonin-driven lactational bone remodeling raises the question of whether fluoxetine is a safe option for the treatment of postpartum depression.
Research progress in cardiotoxicity of organophosphate esters
Authors: Fang Hui , Yang Longfei , Yan Meng , Fan Yanan , Zhu Jianping , Ji Lizhen
Published: November 2023

Organophosphate esters (OPEs) have been extensively utilized worldwide as a substitution for brominated flame retardants. With an increased awareness of the need for environmental protection, the potential health risks and ecological hazards of OPEs have attracted widespread attention. As the dynamic organ of the circulatory system, the heart plays a significant role in maintaining normal life activities. Currently, there is a lack of systematic appraisal of the cardiotoxicity of OPEs. This article summarized the effects of OPEs on the morphological structure and physiological functions of the heart. It is found that these chemicals can lead to pericardial edema, abnormal looping, and thinning of atrioventricular walls in the heart, accompanied by alterations in heart rate, with toxic effects varying by the OPE type. These effects are primarily associated with the activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress response, the perturbation of cytoplasmic and intranuclear signal transduction pathways in cardiomyocytes. This paper provides a theoretical basis for further understanding of the toxic effects of OPEs and contributes to environmental protection and OPEs’ ecological risk assessment.
Healthcare professional perspectives on medication challenges in the post-stroke patient
Authors: Bell Shauna , Kelly Helen , Hennessy Eva , Bermingham Margaret , O’Flynn Jennifer Raymy , Sahm Laura J.
Published: November 2023

Background: Medications play an essential role in the management of patients who have experienced a stroke. Despite the recognised importance and widespread availability of secondary prevention guidelines, Irish research has shown a continuous failure to meet secondary prevention targets upon discharge. While complex interventions involving healthcare professionals (HCPs) such as Speech and Language Therapists (SLT), Occupational Therapists (OTs) and Pharmacists have been effective in combatting medication non-adherence, community multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) are not as well defined as in the acute setting, leading to wide variation in patient care. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and challenges faced by HCPs in the continuity of care post-discharge from a hospital stroke ward, and its impact on medication adherence.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews and one focus group with HCPs were conducted, and data were analysed using Braun & Clarke’s reflexive Thematic Analysis.

Results: Fourteen HCPs (6 Pharmacy, 4 SLT, 4 OTs) participated in this study. Participants discussed their views under two main themes 1) continuity of care and 2) medication adherence. Sub-themes observed regarding continuity of care include management and organisation, interpersonal continuity, and informational continuity. Themes generated which impact medication adherence post-discharge include condition-related factors, medication-related factors, systemic and HCP factors, and patient-related factors.

Discussion: Additional resources are required to bring community healthcare in line with the standard of acute care. Increased channels of communication must be established across contexts and disciplines, and may be achieved using interprofessional training through continuous professional development or third-level education, a more clearly defined community team structure, and discharge summaries completed to relevant quality standards. While suboptimal continuity of care was reported as contributing to medication non-adherence, HCPs also acknowledged the complexities of medication management post-stroke.
Effect of Berberine Phytosome on reproductive, dermatologic, and metabolic characteristics in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a controlled, randomized, multi-centric, open-label clinical trial
Authors: Di Pierro Francesco , Sultana Ruqqia , Eusaph Amna Zia , Abrar Saida , Bugti Mahroo , Afridi Fauzia , Farooq Umer , Iqtadar Somia , Ghauri Fareeha , Makhduma Syeda , Nourin Shazia , Kanwal Ayesha , Bano Aasiya , Bugti Ali Akbar , Mureed Shah , Ghazal Ayesha , Irshad Romana , Recchia Martino , Bertuccioli Alexander , Putignano Pietro , Riva Antonella , Guasti Luigina , Zerbinati Nicola , Khan Amjad
Published: November 2023

Background: Berberine is a poorly absorbed natural alkaloid widely used as nutraceutical to counteract diarrhoea and to lower cholesterol and hyperglycaemia. It has also been reported to reduce signs and symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Objective: To explore, through a multi-centric, randomized, controlled and prospective study, the possible role played by a form berberine that is more easily absorbed (Berberine Phytosome®, BP) in 130 Pakistani women with a diagnosis of PCOS and fertility problems due to menstrual and ovary abnormalities.

Results: Ninety days of supplementation with BP, administered at 550 mg x2/die, determined (i) resumption of regular menstruation in about 70% of women (versus 16% in the control group; p < 0.0001), (ii) normalization of the ovaries anatomy in more than 60% of women (versus 13% in the control group; p < 0.0001), (iii) acne improvement in 50% of women (versus 16% in the control group; p = 0.0409) and (iv) hirsutism reduction in 14% of women (versus 0% in the control group; p = 0.0152). The metabolic and the hormonal profiles of the women in the two groups did not significantly differentiate at the end of the study. BP was well-tolerated and no specific side-effects were registered. Respectively after one, two and 8 years of trying, three women supplemented with BP became and are currently pregnant.

Conclusion: Our study showed the positive effects of BP supplementation in women with PCOS and confirmed the high safety profile of this nutraceutical.

Clinical Trial Registration:https://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier NCT05480670
Considerations about future hard x-ray area detectors
Authors: Gruner Sol M. , Carini Gabriella , Miceli Antonino
Published: November 2023

X-ray sources continue to advance in both intensity and temporal domains, thereby opening new ways to analyze the structure and properties of matter, provided that the resultant x-ray images can be efficiently and quantitatively recorded. In this perspective we focus on specific limitations of pixel area x-ray detectors. Although pixel area x-ray detectors have also advanced in recent years, many experiments are still detector limited. Specifically, there is need for detectors that can acquire successive images at GHz rates; detectors that can accurately measure both single photon and millions of photons per pixel in the same image at frame rates of hundreds of kHz; and detectors that efficiently capture images of very hard x-rays (20 keV to several hundred keV). The data volumes and data rates of state-of-the-art detection exceeds most practical data storage options and readout bandwidths, thereby necessitating on-line processing of data prior to, or in lieu of full frame readouts.
Asymmetries in paddle force influence choice of stroke type for canoe slalom athletes
Authors: Wakeling James M. , Smiešková Stanislava , Pratt Jaylene S. , Vajda Matej , Busta Jan
Published: November 2023

Canoe slalom is an Olympic discipline where athletes race down a whitewater course in kayaks (K1) or canoes (C1) navigating a set of down-stream and up-stream gates. Kayak paddles are symmetrical and have a blade at each end, whereas C1 paddles have only one blade that must be moved across the boat to perform strokes on either the right or left side. Asymmetries in paddle force between the two sides of the boat may lead to a reduction in predicted race time. The purpose of this study was to quantify asymmetries in the paddle forces between the two sides for slalom paddling. Paddle forces for 42 canoe slalom athletes (C1 and K1) were quantified from the straight sections of a flat-water figure-of-eight course. Paddle forces were measured using strain gauges embedded in the paddle shaft, stroke type was identified using video, and boat trajectory was tracked using inertial measurement units and high-speed GPS: data were fused using in-house analysis software. Paddle forces were quantified by their peak force, and impulse during the stroke. Paddle forces for the kayakers had asymmetries of 14.2 to 17.1% for the male K1M and 11.1 to 14.4% for the women K1W. Canoeists were no more asymmetrical than the kayakers for their ‘on-side’ strokes between the right and left sides. However, there were considerable differences for their ‘off-side’ strokes: male C1M off-side paddle forces were similar to their ‘on-side’ forces for the same side, but the women C1W had a significantly lower (−20.8% to −29.5%) paddle forces for their ‘off-side’ strokes compared to their ‘on-side’ strokes on that same side. Despite an increasing number of younger male athletes being introduced to the switching technique, and it being used by C1M athletes in international competitions since 2014, C1M paddlers still do not use switching transitions as much as C1W. The data from this study indicate that there is a biomechanical reason for this sex-based difference in the higher proportion of off-side strokes used by the C1M athletes compared to C1W athletes: and this needs to be considered for optimal technique development and race performance.
Exploring the genetic diversity and population structure of Ailanthus altissima using chloroplast and nuclear microsatellite DNA markers across its native range
Authors: Saina Josphat K. , Li Zhi-Zhong , Ngarega Boniface K. , Gituru Robert W. , Chen Jin-Ming , Liao Yi-Ying
Published: November 2023

Understanding how anthropogenic disturbances affect the genetics of tree species is crucial; however, how tree populations in the wild can tolerate these activities remains unexplored. Given the ongoing and intensifying anthropogenic disturbances, we conducted a study using Ailanthus altissima to gain new insights into the effects of these pressures on genetic variability in undisturbed and disturbed forests. We analyzed the genetic diversity and population structure of A. altissima using nuclear (EST-SSR) and chloroplast (cpSSR) microsatellite markers. The genetic diversity across the 34 studied populations based on EST-SSRs was found to be moderate to high (nHE = 0.547–0.772) with a mean nHE of 0.680. Bayesian clustering, principal coordinate analysis (PCoA), and discriminant analysis of principal component (DAPC) consistently divided the populations into three distinct groups based on EST-SSRs. Allelic combinations of 92 different chloroplast size variants from 10 cpSSR loci resulted in a total of 292 chloroplast haplotypes. The mean haplotype diversity was relatively high (cpHE = 0.941), and the mean haplotype richness was 2.690, averaged across the 34 populations of A. altissima. Values of FST in A. altissima from chloroplast and nuclear markers were 0.509 and 0.126, respectively. Modeling results showed evidence for population range contraction during the Last Glacial Maximum with subsequent population expansion in the Holocene and the future. Although genetic variation did not differ substantially across disturbed and undisturbed sites, there were small trends indicating higher genetic diversity and population bottlenecks in disturbed forests. As a result, disrupted ecosystems might display surprising genetic patterns that are difficult to predict and should not be overlooked.
A microencapsulation approach to design microbial seed coatings to boost wheat seed germination and seedling growth under salt stress
Authors: Gong Min , He Jiuxing , Kong Meng , Huo Qiuyan , Jiang Yawen , Song Jiqing , Han Wei , Lv Guohua
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Salt stress in seed germination and early seedling growth is the greatest cause of crop loss in saline-alkali soils. Microbial seed coating is an effective way to promote plant growth and salt resistance, but these coatings suffer from poor seed adhesion and low survival rates under typical storage conditions.

Methods

In this study, the marine bacterium Pontibacter actiniarum DSM 19842 from kelp was isolated and microencapsulated with calcium alginate using the emulsion and internal gelation method.

Results

Compared to unencapsulated seeds, the spherical microcapsules demonstrated a bacterial encapsulation rate of 65.4% and survival rate increased by 22.4% at 25°C for 60 days. Under salt stress conditions, the seed germination percentage of microcapsule-embedded bacteria (M-Embed) was 90%, which was significantly increased by 17% compared to the germination percentage (73%) of no coating treatment (CK). Root growth was also significantly increased by coating with M-Embed. Chlorophyll, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, proline, hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde levels indicated that the M-Embed had the best positive effects under salt stress conditions.

Discussion

Therefore, embedding microorganisms in suitable capsule materials provides effective protection for the survival of the microorganism and this seed coating can alleviate salt stress in wheat. This process will benefit the development of sustainable agriculture in coastal regions with saline soils.
Evaluation of the chemical composition and nutritional value of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) biofortified in hydroponics with iodine in the form of iodoquinolines
Authors: Dyląg Agnieszka , Smoleń Sylwester , Wisła-Świder Anna , Kowalska Iwona , Sularz Olga , Krzemińska Joanna , Pitala Joanna , Koronowicz Aneta
Published: November 2023

Iodine deficiency in the diet creates the need to search for innovative, more sustainable and more effective strategies for enriching food with this microelement. The adopted research hypothesis assumed that the use of organic forms of iodine for supplementation of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.), compared to mineral iodine, has a more favorable effect not only on the concentration of iodine, but also on the yield and the content of other chemical components determining its nutritional and health-promoting value. Lettuce was planted in a nutrient film technique (NFT) hydroponic study in a greenhouse. The following application of iodine compounds (all in 5 µM molar mass equivalents) were tested in the studies: control (without of iodine application); potassium iodate (positive iodine control), 8-hydroxy-7-iodo-5-quinolinesulfonic acid, 5-chloro-7-iodo-8-quinolinol, 5,7-diiodo-8-quinolinol and 4-hydroxy-8-iodo-3-quinolinecarboxylic acid. In this work, it was shown for the first time that iodoquinolines can be 1) a source of iodine for plants; 2) they have a biostimulating effect on their yielding and 3) they increase the resistance of crops to stress (due to a significant increase in the level of polyphenolic compounds). Lettuce with the addition of 8-hydroxy-7-iodo-5-quinolinesulfonic acid was characterized by the highest content of iodine, which was 221.7 times higher than in control plants. The weight gain of the whole plant was particularly visible in the case of lettuce enriched with 5-chloro-7-iodo-8-quinolinol and amounted to 26.48% compared to the control. Lettuce biofortified with iodine in the form of iodoquinolines can successfully become part of a sustainable diet based on plant products, which has a low impact on the environment and contributes to the long-term good health of an individual or community. Reducing iodine deficiency through the use of organoiodine compounds can help achieve the sustainability goal of eliminating hidden hunger, improving nutritional status and promoting sustainable agriculture.
Identification of the CDPK gene family in patchouli and functional analysis in response to continuous cropping stress
Authors: Liu Xiaofeng , Zeeshan Ul Haq Muhammad , Yu Jing , Liu Ya , Yang Huageng , Cui Hongguang , Yang Dongmei , Wu Yougen
Published: November 2023

To further reveal the molecular mechanisms underlying the formation of continuous cropping disorders in patchouli, this study analyzed the function of calcium dependent protein kinase (CDPK) genes at the molecular level in patchouli continuous cropping disorders. The findings unveiled the presence of 45 PcCDPK genes within the complete patchouli genome dataset. These genes exhibited a range of molecular weights from 50.78 to 78.96 kDa and aliphatic index values spanning from 74.42 to 88.49, and are shown to be hydrophilic proteins. The evolution of 45 PcCDPK members was divided into 4 subfamilies, with a total of 65 pairs of collinear genes. Each PcCDPK contains a STKc-CAMK domain and four EF-hand structures exhibiting a certain degree of conservatism during evolution. Transcriptome data further supported the significance of PcCDPK25 and PcCDPK38 genes, showing substantial upregulation, which was corroborated by qRT-PCR results. The 1629 bp and 1716 bp CDS sequences were obtained by cloning the PcCDPK25 and PcCDPK38 genes, respectively, and subcellular localization showed that both proteins were localized on the plasma membrane. This comprehensive study provides molecular-level confirmation of the pivotal roles played by CDPK genes in the emergence of continuous cropping challenges in patchouli plants, establishing a crucial foundation for a deeper comprehension of the molecular mechanisms underpinning these obstacles.
Coping with mortality salience: the role of connection thinking and afterlife beliefs in Chinese context
Authors: Wang Kun , Sun Zhaoyang , Hou Yubo , Yuan Mengchan
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Grounded in Terror Management Theory (TMT), this research explored the influence of mortality salience on preferences for afterlife beliefs (reincarnation vs. resignation to fate) within a Chinese context. We also examined the mediating role of death anxiety and the moderating effects of connection thinking across different age groups.

Methods

Across three experimental studies involving a cumulative sample of 485 Chinese participants, we primed individuals with thoughts of their own mortality and then assessed their death anxiety and proclivity toward reincarnation beliefs or resignation to fate. Connection thinking—a cognitive construct emphasizing relational interconnectedness—was also evaluated to ascertain its moderating impact.

Results

The data revealed a pronounced preference for reincarnation beliefs as a distal defense mechanism following mortality salience, significantly mediated by death anxiety. The moderating role of connection thinking was also verified, but with age-related differences: among younger Chinese participants (age < 35), heightened connection thinking buffered against increased death anxiety triggered by mortality salience and thus mitigated its mediating role. Conversely, for older participants (age ≥ 35), amplified connection thinking exacerbated both the increased death anxiety and its mediating effect.

Discussion

These findings contribute to TMT by elucidating the influence of death anxiety on the relationship between mortality salience and afterlife beliefs in the Chinese cultural context. They also enrich the literature on connection thinking by uncovering its moderating role. Moreover, our research yields practical implications for coping with mortality salience and alleviating existential anxiety, enhancing the understanding of these phenomena across different cultural and age groups.
Mental health symptoms in German elite athletes: a network analysis
Authors: Geiger Sheila , Jahre Lisa Maria , Aufderlandwehr Julia , Krakowczyk Julia Barbara , Esser Anna Julia , Mühlbauer Thomas , Skoda Eva-Maria , Teufel Martin , Bäuerle Alexander
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Elite athletes are exposed to a variety of sport-specific stressors that may put them at particular risk for mental health symptoms and disorders. The aim of the present study was to assess data on mental health of elite athletes and investigate associations and interconnections among different variables using network analysis.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2021 to December 2022. The sample consisted of 275 German elite athletes (167 females) aged ≥18 years. Next to sociodemographic, medical and sport-related data, psychometric data such as psychological distress, symptoms of generalized anxiety, depression, and somatic symptom disorder have been gathered through questionnaires and analyzed by means of network analysis.

Results

Over 95.0% of the athletes showed elevated distress and 28.6% reported symptoms of depression. Results of the network analysis show, among other findings, that symptoms of somatic symptom disorder were associated with severe injuries and substance use. Moreover, elite athletes who reported a better financial situation reported fewer symptoms of depression, generalized anxiety, and somatic symptom disorder. They also reported a lower incidence of mild to moderate injuries and severe injuries, fewer years spent in elite sports, less substance use, and fewer training sessions per week. Conversely, these athletes reported a higher level of distress. Furthermore, sex, financial situation and number of training units per week emerged as significant predictors for mental health symptoms.

Discussion

Elite athletes showed increased numbers regarding mental health symptoms. Providing appropriate mental health interventions for elite athletes and further analysis of factors that influence the mental health of elite athletes and their interplay seem to be of central importance for the general well-being of elite athletes.
Associations of working from home with job satisfaction, work-life balance, and working-model preferences
Authors: Orešković Tin , Milošević Milan , Košir Bruna Kostelac , Horvat Darko , Glavaš Tomislav , Sadarić Antonio , Knoop Carin-Isabel , Orešković Stjepan
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic forced many businesses to shift towards remote and hybrid working models. This study explored the association of the work-from-home model with employee satisfaction, work-life balance, and work-model preferences within MPlus Group, a leader in telework within the business process and technology outsourcing (BPTO) industry.

Methods

We analyzed survey responses of 4,554 employees of MPlus Group across seven countries to assess the associations of working from home with job satisfaction, work-life balance, and preference regarding continuing to work from home.

Results

Employees working within all models, and both women and men, reported high levels of job satisfaction and work-life balance, and most employees working from home expressed a desire to continue doing so.

Discussion

Our findings suggest working from home does not lead to lower job satisfaction or work-life balance in the BPTO and similar industries. The study provides insights for organizations and policymakers navigating post-pandemic work dynamics. However, further research is needed to examine the long-term implications of remote work across diverse industries.
Russian version of BRIEF2 Teacher Forms: validation study in typically developing children aged 5 to 7 years old
Authors: Gavrilova Margarita , Aslanova Margarita , Tarasova Kristina , Zinchenko Yuri
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the Russian version of the Behavioral Rating Inventory of Executive Function®, Second Edition (BRIEF2) Teacher Forms and investigate its dimensional structure. The sample consisted of 178 typically developing children aged 5 to 7 years. Internal reliability analysis indicated high reliability (from 0.87 to 0.95) for the three composite indices and the Global Executive Composite across all age groups. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the dimensional structure of the Russian version of BRIEF2 was different among children aged 5 and 6 years compared to children aged 7 years, which is probably because, in Russia, the transition from kindergarten to school takes place upon reaching the age of 7. The results confirm that the Russian version of the BRIEF2 Teacher Form can be used as a valid tool to assess EF in 5- and 6-year-old children, provided that the three BRIEF2 indices are used for clinical interpretation. For 7-year-old children, the BRIEF2 was found to be an insufficiently valid tool to assess executive function.
More sense of self-discipline, less procrastination: the mediation of autonomous motivation
Authors: Tao Su , Jing Yuan
Published: November 2023

Procrastination is considered a result of failed self-regulation. However, could experiencing a sense of successful self-discipline help to boost motivation and reduce procrastination? To explore this question, two studies were conducted to investigate the relationship between the sense of self-discipline, autonomous motivation, and procrastination. Results showed that trait sense of self-discipline negatively predicted general procrastination (Study 1); self-discipline primed participants procrastinated less than the control group (Study 2); autonomous motivation mediated the relationship between sense of self-discipline and procrastination (Study 1 and Study 2). These findings suggest that cultivating a sense of self-discipline can have positive effects on both autonomous motivation and procrastination, and provide useful guidance for interventions aimed at reducing procrastination.
The Holistic Life-Crafting Model: a systematic literature review of meaning-making behaviors
Authors: van Zyl Llewellyn E. , Custers Noah C. M. , Dik Bryan J. , van der Vaart Leoni , Klibert Jeff
Published: November 2023

Pursuing meaningful life experiences is vital for wellbeing and health. Crafting strategies, such as job crafting and work-life balance crafting, have been developed to create meaning in specific life domains. However, these strategies share common underlying behaviors that transcend specific contexts. Building on this understanding, we propose a comprehensive “holistic life-crafting” approach that integrates overlapping behaviors from various crafting strategies. This study aims to clarify the theoretical conceptualization of life-crafting by identifying common strategies and behaviors underlying different meaning-making crafting approaches. Through a systematic literature search of six databases between January and April 2022, we identified 16,479 published records. Using predefined inclusion–exclusion criteria, 51 records (reflecting five crafting approaches, resulting in 223 different crafting behaviors) remained. Through content analysis, we grouped these behaviors into seven broader crafting strategies, forming the “holistic life-crafting” approach. Findings suggest that life-crafting is a holistic, continuous process of proactive meaning-making by intentionally balancing life demands with available resources and altering life’s cognitive, environmental, interest, relational, skill, and task-related aspects to promote personal growth and wellbeing. The holistic approach encompasses cognitive, environmental, interest, relational, resources-demands, skill, and task crafting strategies. This framework provides a comprehensive understanding of how individuals can actively shape their lives to promote more meaningful life experiences across different domains.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO, identifier CRD42022333930.
Linguistic findings in persons with schizophrenia—a review of the current literature
Authors: Ehlen Felicitas , Montag Christiane , Leopold Karolina , Heinz Andreas
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Alterations of verbalized thought occur frequently in psychotic disorders. We characterize linguistic findings in individuals with schizophrenia based on the current literature, including findings relevant for differential and early diagnosis.

Methods

Review of literature published via PubMed search between January 2010 and May 2022.

Results

A total of 143 articles were included. In persons with schizophrenia, language-related alterations can occur at all linguistic levels. Differentiating from findings in persons with affective disorders, typical symptoms in those with schizophrenia mainly include so-called “poverty of speech,” reduced word and sentence production, impaired processing of complex syntax, pragmatic language deficits as well as reduced semantic verbal fluency. At the at-risk state, “poverty of content,” pragmatic difficulties and reduced verbal fluency could be of predictive value.

Discussion

The current results support multilevel alterations of the language system in persons with schizophrenia. Creative expressions of psychotic experiences are frequently found but are not in the focus of this review. Clinical examinations of linguistic alterations can support differential diagnostics and early detection. Computational methods (Natural Language Processing) may improve the precision of corresponding diagnostics. The relations between language-related and other symptoms can improve diagnostics.
Chinese first-year undergraduates’ strategy use in the English writing from sources task: influences from genders, critical thinking, and L2 proficiency
Authors: Liu Wei , Zhao Pengfei
Published: November 2023

English is widely used as alingua francain academic settings, including academic writing, in the modern age. When faced with complex writing tasks that involve multiple sources, the ability to effectively employ writing strategies becomes crucial for achieving writing success. This is particularly true for first-year university students who are learning English as a foreign language. Although previous studies have examined various individual difference factors that influence students’ use of source-based writing strategies, such as L2 proficiency and gender, there is a lack of research exploring the impact of critical thinking skills on students’ strategy use. To address this gap, the current study utilized a convenience sampling procedure to involve 526 first-year EFL undergraduates from six classes in mainland China. A writing task and questionnaire were employed to investigate the students’ critical thinking skills and strategy use during the English writing from sources task. Furthermore, the study examined whether there were differences in strategy use based on gender, L2 proficiency groups, and levels of critical thinking ability. A three-way MANOVA was conducted, revealing significant variations in the students’ writing strategy use based on gender, L2 proficiency groups, and critical thinking levels. Notably, interaction effects between critical thinking ability and gender were also observed. The study discusses important implications, emphasizing the need for teachers to integrate critical thinking and strategy training into practical writing classes, and to consider the diverse learning needs of different groups of students.