bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An updated regional model skill assessment for seasonal and interannual variability of bottom temperature across the eastern Bering Sea shelf
Authors: Kearney Kelly A. , Stabeno Phyllis J. , Hermann Albert J. , Mordy Calvin W.
Published: February 2025

The Bering10K Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS) model is a high-resolution (10-km) regional ocean model that has been used over the past decade to investigate relationships between the physical environment and the eastern Bering Sea shelf ecosystem in both research and management contexts. Extensive validation for this model has been conducted previously, particularly focused on bottom temperature, a key physical driver shaping ecosystem dynamics in this region. However, previous observations of bottom temperature were primarily limited to the summer months. Recent deployments of pop-up floats capable of overwinter measurements now allow us to extend the previous validation to other seasons. Here, we characterize bottom temperature on the southeastern Bering Sea shelf across time scales by combining data from our new pop-up floats with several existing temperature datasets. We then use this combination of data to systematically assess the skill of the Bering10K ROMS model in capturing these features, focusing on spatial variability in skill metrics and the potential processes leading to these patterns. We confirm that the model captures shelf-wide patterns in bottom temperature well, including mean patterns as well as both seasonal and interannual variability. However, a few areas of potential improvement were also identified: underestimated surface mixing in the model leads to delayed destratification across the middle and outer shelves, the position of the inner front may be offset slightly in the model, and bathymetric smoothing leads to poor representation near the shelf break and potentially underestimated flow onto the shelf through shelf break canyons. Overall, this paper presents the most detailed spatiotemporal analysis of this model’s skill in simulating bottom temperature across the eastern Bering Sea shelf to date and supplies a benchmark analysis framework that can be used for planned regional model transitions and improvements over the coming years.
The data-intensive research paradigm: challenges and responses in clinical professional graduate education
Authors: Yang Chunhong , Chen Yijing , Qian Changshun , Shi Fangmin , Guo You
Published: February 2025

With the widespread application of big data, artificial intelligence, and machine learning technologies in the medical field, a new paradigm of data-intensive clinical research is emerging as a key force driving medical advancement. This new paradigm presents unprecedented challenges for graduate education in clinical professions, encompassing multidisciplinary integration needs, high-quality faculty shortages, learning method transformations, assessment system updates, and ethical concerns. Future healthcare professionals will need not only to possess traditional medical knowledge and clinical skills, but also to master interdisciplinary skills such as data analysis, programming, and statistics. In response, this paper proposes a series of countermeasures, including curriculum reconstruction, faculty development, developing and sharing resources, updating the evaluation and assessment system, and strengthening ethics education. These initiatives aim to help clinical graduate education better adapt to this new paradigm, ultimately cultivating interdisciplinary talents in medical-computer integration.
The efficacy of a low-dose combination of febuxostat and benzbromarone versus each drug used alone for the treatment of gout
Authors: Zheng Caiyu , Tong Qingwen , Zhang Zhijun , Lin Chunmei , Wang Zhiyi , Kang Dongshu , Lin Yanmei , Tian Jianqing
Published: February 2025

Objective

The study focuses on comparing the efficacy of a low-dose combination of febuxostat and benzbromarone versus each drug used alone for the treatment of gout.

Methods

A prospective, randomized, open-labeled trial of men with gout and renal uric acid underexcretion was conducted. We randomly assigned 100 patients to either low-dose febuxostat or low-dose benzbromarone for initial treatment. 43 patients with complete data were analyzed in this study. The analysis of medication Treatment effects, Period effects and Patient-Within-Sequence effects for different treatment options was performed by cross-test ANOVA.

Result

The cross-trial analysis revealed no significant differences in the magnitude of uric acid decline among the three groups after treatment. Similarly, there were no statistically significant differences in blood lipid levels, CRP, CA724, eGFR, and ALT among the three groups post-treatment. The null model without participant-specific benefits was a linear mixed model for ALT, AST, eGFR, TC, TG, LDL, UA, CRP, CA724, and 24-h uric acid with age, BMI, treatment period and treatment as fixed factors, and the intercept as a random factor by participant. The results indicated no significant differences on relevant indicators among the three treatment regimens.

Conclusion

Our study did not identify a difference in the efficacy of reducing uric acid excretion in gout patients when comparing conventional dose febuxostat and benzbromarone monotherapy versus low-dose combination therapy.
Case report: A case of acute renal failure, rhabdomyolysis, and toxic encephalopathy associated with diquat poisoning in a pregnant woman
Authors: Li Mengqin , Qin Bao , Chen Yuan , Cui Yan , Hu Ying Chun , Jiang Zhi
Published: February 2025

We studied the case of a 22-year-old Pregnant woman who self-administered about 200 ml of diquat solution (200 g/L) during a suicide attempt. She developed vomiting, and was admitted to the emergency department of our hospital 5 h later. Based on symptoms, and elevated levels of myoglobin and creatine kinase, the patient was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis, acute renal failure and toxic encephalopathy caused by diquat poisoning. Undergoing hemoperfusion and hemofiltration were administered immediately. Rhabdomyolysis, toxic encephalopathy, and abortion occurred successively in the pregnant woman. The patient was discharged from the hospital after 37 days of treatment with a Glasgow–Pittsburgh Cerebral Classification (CPC) score of grade 2.this was a case of diquat poisoning complicated with renal failure, rhabdomyolysis, and toxic encephalopathy in a pregnant, which would enrich the experience of diquat poisoning treatment.
QAAPT: an interoperable web-based open-source tool for antimicrobial resistance data analysis and visualisation
Authors: Sujan Mohammad Julhas , Gautam Sanjay , Aboushady Ahmed Taha , Clark Adam , Kwon Sooyoung , Joh Hea Sun , Holm Marianne , Stelling John , Marks Florian , Poudyal Nimesh
Published: February 2025

The analysis and visualisation of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance data is a crucial challenge, especially in high-burden, low-middle-income countries. We describe the design, development, integration, and implementation of the Quick Analysis of Antimicrobial Patterns and Trends (QAAPT) tool for AMR data analysis and visualisation. The QAAPT tool was created by the Capturing Data on Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns and Trends in Use in Regions of Asia project, led by the International Vaccine Institute (IVI). This open-source web-based tool/application generates statistical and visual outputs of AMR data, offers data curation options, and can be integrated with laboratory information management systems. The QAAPT tool is user-friendly and is operable by someone with limited expertise in software or programming. As a part of the project, the tool was used to analyse data from 72 laboratories across 7 Asian countries. In this study, we present the technical aspects of tool development and highlight implementation outcomes for analysing and generating visual reports from more than 2.37 million highly heterogeneous antimicrobial susceptibility test data points.
Preliminary study on mercury pollution affecting soil bacteria near a mercury mining area
Authors: Du Jianxiong , Yuan Yili , Li Jianfeng , Zhang Shuqing , Ren Yuxiang
Published: February 2025

In order to further explore the effect of mercury contamination soil (nearly 20 years) near a mercury mining area (Tongren, Guizhou, China) on the diversity and structure of the soil bacterial communities, five groups of soil samples (SMO2, SMO20, SMO30, SMO500, and SMO650) were collected at distances of 2, 20, 30, 500, and 650 m, respectively, from the only sewage outlet of a mercury mining area (Guizhou, China). All soil samples were collected from the 0–20 cm topsoil layer. After processing them, the soil microbial DNA was extracted from each soil sample, and sequenced via high-throughput sequencing technology. The sequencing results indicated a significantly greater diversity of the soil bacterial community in SMO2, SMO20, and SMO650 (relative high mercury contents) than in SMO300 and SMO500 (relative low mercury contents). Alpha diversity analysis revealed that the soil bacterial community diversity in SMO2 and SMO20 significantly exceeded that in SMO30, SMO500, and SMO650. The soil bacterial community structure analysis revealed identical and distinct dominant bacterial communities within the soil sample groups at both phylum and class levels. According to the further analyzed relationships between the soil environmental factors and bacterial community abundance for each sample group, the pH, distance (mercury content), and electrical conductivity (EC) had greater impacts on the structure of the soil bacterial community than available N, P, K. The survival of high relative abundance bacterial community taxa in the microbial communities provides compelling evidence of the high adaptability of bacteria to long-term mercury contamination of the soil environment. The results of this study provide a scientific reference and impetus for further research on the mechanism(s) responsible for tolerance to high mercury stress in mercury-contaminated soil.
Antifungal activity and mechanism of Phoebe bournei wood essential oil against two dermatophytes
Authors: Yang Yan , Sun Qinglin , Zhang Yuting , Huang Junhua , Ma Wenjun , Yang Qi , Tong Zaikang , Zhang Junhong
Published: February 2025

Background

Dermatophytes are notorious pathogenic fungi that threaten human health and reduce quality of life. Phoebe bournei (Hemsl.) Yen C. Yang wood essential oil (PWEO) has been found to have excellent antifungal activity, but its mechanism remains unclear.

Methodology

Determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of PWEO on two dermatophytes (Microsporum gypseum and Epidermophyton floccosum) by broth microdilution method. Culture plates containing PWEO in vitro tested PWEO inhibition effect of mycelial growth of dermatophytes and the effect of PWEO on hyphal structure was observed by microscopy; the changes of cell membrane permeability and the degree of lipid peroxidation were reflected by measuring cell physiological indexes. ROS and MMP probe detection of intracellular ROS and MMP change. Finally, WGCNA analysis was used to identify and verify the key genes.

Results

We found that the main components of PWEO are monoterpenes and sesquiterpenoids. The PWEO had strong antifungal activity, and the MIC of PWEO against both dermatophytes was 3.600 mg/mL. PWEO significantly inhibit mycelial growth, and the inhibitory effect increases significantly with increasing concentration. When the PWEO concentration reaches 1.8mg/mL, mycelial growth is completely inhibited. Microscopic observation showed that PWEO destroy the structure of hyphae. The cell membrane permeability test indicated that the cell membrane of dermatophytes was damaged by PWEO. Cellular malondialdehyde (MDA) content was positively correlated with the concentration of PWEO, suggesting that lipid peroxidation of dermatophytes was caused by PWEO. Fluorescence microscopy images showed excessive production of ROS and disruption of MMP in dermatophytes after PWEO treatment. Physiological experiment of M. gypseum showed significant differences in protein extravasation, extracellular conductivity and intracellular MDA content after three hours of treatment with 0.450 mg/mL PWEO compared with the control. Five hub genes were identified by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), of which Long chain fatty acid CoA ligase 1 (ACSL1) was significantly up-regulated expressed. Meiotically up-regulated 72 (MUG72) and GDP-mannose transporters gene 1 (GMT1) were significantly down-regulated expressed after PWEO treatment, which affected the growth and reproduction of M. gypseum. These results suggest that PWEO can be used as natural antifungal agents for sustainable applications.
Optineurin overexpression ameliorates neurodegeneration through regulating neuroinflammation and mitochondrial quality in a murine model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Zhao Shumin , Chen Ranran , An Yi , Zhang Yali , Ma Cheng , Gao Ying , Lu Yanchao , Yang Fei , Bai Xue , Zhang Jingjing
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the loss of motor neurons (MNs). Genetic mutations in Optineurin (OPTN) and Superoxide Dismutase 1 (SOD1) have been identified as causal factors for ALS. OPTN immunopositive inclusions have been confirmed in the cases of ALS with SOD1 mutations. However, the role of the OPTN gene in ALS caused by SOD1 mutations is ambiguous.

Methods

The murine Optn lentivirus and empty vector lentivirus were injected into SOD1G93A mice after discovering variations in Optn expression over time. The phenotype onset date, life span, locomotor activity, and pathological changes in the spinal cord were determined and recorded subsequently. In addition, the influences on cellular apoptosis, mitochondrial dynamics, mitophagy, and neuroinflammation were further investigated.

Results

Optn expression was increased in the spinal cord of SOD1G93A mice at the pre-symptomatic phase, but decreased after disease onset. Optn overexpression led to a 9.7% delay in the onset of disease and improved motor performance in SOD1G93A mice. Optn overexpression also ameliorated the MNs loss by 46.8%. Moreover, all these ameliorating effects induced by Optn overexpression might be due to the inhibition of cellular apoptosis, improvement of mitochondrial quality, regulation of mitochondrial dynamics, promotion of mitophagy, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrate that Optn overexpression protects MNs, inhibites cellular apoptosis, improves mitochondrial quality and regulates neuroinflamation in SOD1G93A mice at the pre-symptomatic stage.
A scalable multi-modal learning fruit detection algorithm for dynamic environments
Authors: Mao Liang , Guo Zihao , Liu Mingzhe , Li Yue , Wang Linlin , Li Jie
Published: February 2025

Introduction

To enhance the detection of litchi fruits in natural scenes, address challenges such as dense occlusion and small target identification, this paper proposes a novel multimodal target detection method, denoted as YOLOv5-Litchi.

Methods

Initially, the Neck layer network of YOLOv5s is simplified by changing its FPN+PAN structure to an FPN structure and increasing the number of detection heads from 3 to 5. Additionally, the detection heads with resolutions of 80 × 80 pixels and 160 × 160 pixels are replaced by TSCD detection heads to enhance the model's ability to detect small targets. Subsequently, the positioning loss function is replaced with the EIoU loss function, and the confidence loss is substituted by VFLoss to further improve the accuracy of the detection bounding box and reduce the missed detection rate in occluded targets. A sliding slice method is then employed to predict image targets, thereby reducing the miss rate of small targets.

Results

Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed model improves accuracy, recall, and mean average precision (mAP) by 9.5, 0.9, and 12.3 percentage points, respectively, compared to the original YOLOv5s model. When benchmarked against other models such as YOLOx, YOLOv6, and YOLOv8, the proposed model's AP value increases by 4.0, 6.3, and 3.7 percentage points, respectively.

Discussion

The improved network exhibits distinct improvements, primarily focusing on enhancing the recall rate and AP value, thereby reducing the missed detection rate which exhibiting a reduced number of missed targets and a more accurate prediction frame, indicating its suitability for litchi fruit detection. Therefore, this method significantly enhances the detection accuracy of mature litchi fruits and effectively addresses the challenges of dense occlusion and small target detection, providing crucial technical support for subsequent litchi yield estimation.
miRNA in blood-brain barrier repair: role of extracellular vesicles in stroke recovery
Authors: Sprincl Vojtech , Romanyuk Nataliya
Published: February 2025

Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of mortality and long-term disability globally. One of its aspects is the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The disruption of BBB’s integrity during stroke exacerbates neurological damage and hampers therapeutic intervention. Recent advances in regenerative medicine suggest that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) show promise for restoring BBB integrity. This review explores the potential of MSC-derived EVs in mediating neuroprotective and reparative effects on the BBB after ischemic stroke. We highlight the molecular cargo of MSC-derived EVs, including miRNAs, and their role in enhancing angiogenesis, promoting the BBB and neural repair, and mitigating apoptosis. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges associated with the clinical translation of MSC-derived EV therapies and the possibilities of further enhancing EVs’ innate protective qualities. Our findings underscore the need for further research to optimize the therapeutic potential of EVs and establish their efficacy and safety in clinical settings.
Effects of a novel non-pharmacological intervention based on respiratory biofeedback, neurofeedback and median nerve stimulation to treat children with ADHD
Authors: Santamaría-Vázquez Eduardo , Estudillo-Guerra Anayali , Ali Lna , Martinez Diana , Hornero Roberto , Morales-Quezada Leon
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects cognitive, academic, behavioral, emotional, and social functioning, primarily in children. Despite its high prevalence, current pharmacological treatments are not effective in 30% of cases and show poor long-term adherence. Non-pharmacological interventions can complement medication-based treatments to improve results. Among these therapies, neurofeedback (NFB) and respiratory biofeedback (R-BFB) have shown promise in treating ADHD symptoms. Moreover, median nerve stimulation (MNS) can help to enhance the efficacy of these treatments, but it has never been explored in this context. This study aimed to: (1) investigate the effectiveness of a combined R-BFB and NFB intervention to treat ADHD, and (2) explore the potential benefits of MNS in enhancing the proposed intervention.

Methods

Sixty children with ADHD participated in the study, divided into two experimental groups. The active group received verum MNS, and the sham group received sham MNS. Both groups performed the NFB/R-BFB treatment. Clinical assessments (i.e., Conner's parent rating scale) and electroencephalography (EEG) measurements were taken before the intervention, immediately after treatment, and one month later.

Results

The results showed that the combined therapy significantly improved behavioral problems, anxiety, hyperactivity, and impulsivity-hyperactivity. Moreover, MNS enhanced the positive effects of the intervention, as the active group achieved higher improvement compared to the sham group. EEG analysis revealed significant changes in spontaneous brain activity, with an increase in frontal theta power (p = 0.0125) associated with reduced anxiety, which might explain the clinical outcomes. These changes were maintained 1 month after the intervention (p = 0.0325). Correlations between EEG changes and clinical outcomes were observed, suggesting a potential relationship between neurophysiological markers and ADHD symptoms measured by standardized scales.

Discussion

The study findings suggest that the proposed R-BFB/NFB intervention may be an effective non-pharmacological therapy for ADHD, with the additional application of MNS potentially enhancing its effects.
Playful brains: a possible neurobiological pathway to cognitive health in aging
Authors: Golland Yulia , Ben-David Boaz M. , Mather Mara , Keisari Shoshi
Published: February 2025

Healthy cognitive aging emphasizes preserving cognitive functions essential for independence and well-being. Developing interventions that promote cognition and resilience in older individuals is crucial. Social playfulness, characterized by spontaneity and mutual enjoyment, allows individuals to step away from routine roles and engage in novel and surprising exchanges. Emerging evidence suggests that social playfulness is a promising approach for supporting cognitive functions in aging in a joyful and engaging way. In this theory and hypothesis manuscript, we propose a neurobiological pathway mediating the effects of social playfulness on cognition. Playful interactions generate high levels of uncertainty, requiring continuous adaptation and exploration. We suggest that these demands engage the locus coeruleus-noradrenaline (LC-NA) system, which is crucial for navigating uncertainty and sustaining arousal and flexibility needed to adapt to the dynamic and unpredictable nature of playful interactions. Importantly, the collaborative and safe environment of playfulness transforms this uncertainty-driven noradrenergic activation into an engaging and rewarding experience, enhancing focus, positive affect, and flexibility. In older adults, where LC-NA functionality may decline with age, social playfulness could counteract cognitive decline by upregulating this system. We review evidence linking LC-NA integrity to cognitive health and explore how playfulness might mitigate the deterioration of cognitive functioning by training executive functions and promoting novelty and exploration. This framework bridges neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and creative-arts therapies, highlighting social playfulness as a tool for healthy aging. We emphasize the need for further research to validate this hypothesis and explore its implications for designing interventions that leverage social playfulness to enhance cognitive resilience in older populations.
Alexithymia in multiple sclerosis: past, present and future
Authors: Ayache Samar S. , Chalah Moussa A.
Published: February 2025

Alexithymia denotes the “absence” of “words” for “emotion” and has its roots in the Greek words “a,” “lexis,” and “thymos.” It is sometimes referred to as “emotional blindness,” “blunted feeling,” or “disrupted emotional awareness.” The term “alexithymia” first appeared in the 1970s in the works of Sifneos, Nemiah, and colleagues. It entails difficulties in identifying and expressing emotions and an externally oriented thinking style. It is not a psychiatric disorder but rather a multidimensional personality trait or construct, appearing to be normally distributed in the general population, with high levels of alexithymia in approximately 10% of individuals. Evidence suggests that alexithymia serves as a prognostic risk factor for health problems, a transdiagnostic risk factor for emotion-based psychopathologies, and a predictor of poor psychiatric treatment outcomes. It is frequently observed in neurological diseases. Nevertheless, its mechanisms, assessment, and management remain overlooked. In multiple sclerosis (MS), an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system, alexithymia seems to occur in up to 53% of patients. However, it remains understudied despite recent growing interest. In this mini review, we briefly reassess the prevalence, as well as the clinical, sociodemographic and neuropsychological correlates of alexithymia in MS (e.g., anxiety, depression, fatigue, socio-emotional outcomes). This is followed by an analysis of neurobiological underpinnings of alexithymia derived from neurophysiological and neuroimaging studies in this clinical population. Finally, we provide perspectives to guide future research exploring and managing alexithymia in MS.
Spatial frequency preferences of representations of indoor and natural scene categories in scene-selective regions under different conditions of contrast
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Miao Qiaomu , Liu Baolin
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Scene-selective regions were shown to be significantly affected by spatial frequencies (SF) and have different sensitivities to low spatial frequencies (LSF) and high spatial frequencies (HSF). However, previous studies mainly focused on the neural activations or the neural patterns in a single SF band.

Methods

To investigate the extent to which the information of a single SF is used in scene category representations, we not only decoded the scene categories in each SF, but also used the neural patterns to LSF or HSF to decode the patterns to non-filtered (NF) scenes based on fMRI data using multivoxel pattern analysis (MVPA). As luminance contrast was shown to follow statistical regularities along with SF, we performed the decoding analyses separately in two conditions of contrast where the contrast of LSF and HSF was unmodified or equalized.

Results

The results showed distinct SF preferences in the two contrast conditions, showing that luminance contrast has a significant role in SF processing. In addition, we also performed the above analyses only within natural and indoor scenes, respectively. The results showed the scene-selective regions were more efficient in distinguishing natural scene categories in LSF, and the LSF was preferentially used along with high luminance contrast in recognition of natural scenes. On the other hand, humans preferentially used HSF information in distinguishing indoor scenes.

Discussion

This distinct SF preferences maybe caused by the different aspects of information conveyed by LSF and HSF, as well as the different strategies of spatial perception in natural and indoor scenes recognition.
Evaluating the effects of seed oils on lipid profile, inflammatory and oxidative markers, and glycemic control of diabetic and dyslipidemic patients: a systematic review of clinical studies
Authors: Fornari Laurindo Lucas , Fornari Laurindo Lívia , Dogani Rodrigues Victória , da Silva Camarinha Oliveira Jéssica , Leme Boaro Beatriz , Cressoni Araújo Adriano , Landgraf Guiguer Elen , Rucco Penteado Detregiachi Claudia , Maria Cavallari Strozze Catharin Virgínia , Federighi Baisi Chagas Eduardo , Cavallari Strozze Catharin Vitor , Direito Rosa , Barbalho Sandra Maria
Published: February 2025

Diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia are significant health concerns that elevate the risk of cardiovascular disease and other metabolic disorders, necessitating effective management strategies. Recent research has highlighted the potential role of dietary fats, particularly seed oils, in influencing health outcomes in these conditions. This systematic review evaluates the impact of seed oils on lipid profiles, inflammatory and oxidative markers, and glycemic control in patients with diabetes and dyslipidemia. A comprehensive search across databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, identified studies focusing on the effects of seed oils. The studies include randomized controlled, parallel-design, double-blind, placebo-controlled, and open-label studies published in English. The quality of the studies was assessed through a detailed review process, and data were extracted to evaluate the effects of seed oils on key metabolic markers. The review included 11 studies demonstrating that seed oils derived from canola, flaxseed, and sesame seeds can positively influence lipid profiles and glycemic control while potentially modulating oxidative stress markers. The findings suggest that seed oils may benefit in managing diabetes and dyslipidemia, although the results are sometimes inconsistent. This review provides valuable insights for dietary recommendations and therapeutic strategies, highlighting the need for further research to clarify the role of seed oils in metabolic health.
Psychometric properties and meaningful change thresholds for the QOL-E instrument in patients with myelodysplastic neoplasms
Authors: Oliva Esther Natalie , Guo Shien , Lord-Bessen Jennifer , Yucel Aylin , Latagliata Roberto , Breccia Massimo , Palumbo Giuseppe A. , Sanpaolo Grazia , Riva Marta , Santini Valeria , Platzbecker Uwe , Garcia-Manero Guillermo , Fenaux Pierre , Pelligra Christopher G.
Published: February 2025

Background

Myelodysplastic neoplasms (MDS) are characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, peripheral blood cytopenias, and an increased risk of progression to acute myeloid leukemia. One of the main treatment goals is improving quality of life (QoL), particularly for patients with lower-risk MDS (LR-MDS) who may live longer with compromised QoL. The QOL-E© is a patient-reported outcome (PRO) measure specifically developed to address the lack of a health-related QoL questionnaire for patients with MDS. The objective of this study was to evaluate the psychometric performance of the QOL-E in patients with LR-MDS.

Methods

Data from four clinical trials in MDS (MEDALIST, DARB-MDS, EQoL-MDS, and RevMDS trials) were used to assess construct validity, reliability, and responsiveness. The QOL-E was validated by the European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire – Core 30 (QLQ-C30) and clinical outcomes. It contains 29 items with the first two items assessing the patient’s general well-being and the 27 remaining items grouped into six domain scores: physical well-being (QOL-FIS), functional well-being (QOL-FUN), social/family well-being (QOL-SOC), sexual well-being (QOL-SEX), fatigue (QOL-FAT), and MDS-specific disturbances (QOL-MDSS). Additionally, meaningful within-patient change (MWPC) thresholds were determined for the domains and summary scores of the QOL-E using anchor-based analyses, supported by distribution-based analyses.

Results

A total of 458 patients were included in the analyses. The QOL-E domain/summary scores demonstrated acceptable convergent/divergent and known-groups validity. Test-retest reliability and internal consistency was confirmed with intraclass correlation coefficients and Cronbach alpha exceeding 0.70 across most QOL-E domains/summary scores. The QOL-E domains/summary scores, except for QOL-SEX, had an adequate ability to detect change from baseline to Week 24. MWPC thresholds were proposed for all other domains and summary scores.

Conclusion

The study results demonstrate that the QOL-E is generally fit for purpose to assess treatment effects in populations with LR-MDS and the proposed MWPC thresholds can be used to assess within-patient treatment effect on PROs, as assessed by the QOL-E, in future studies.
Assessment of historical and future changes in temperature indices for winegrape suitability in Hungarian wine regions (1971–2100)
Authors: Lakatos László , Nagy Richárd
Published: February 2025

Climate change is significantly impacting our agricultural crops and their cultivation areas, which are expected to change considerably by the end of the century. Temperature conditions decisively influence the safe suitability of grapes in a given location. To address these changes, we analysed the temporal changes of four temperature indicators: Average Growing Season Temperature (AGST), Growing Degree Days (GDD or Winkler index (GDD-WI), Huglin index (HI), and Biologically Effective Degree Days (BEDD) across 22 Hungarian wine regions from 1971 to 2100. The analysis was based on data from 14 climate models under RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 scenarios. To investigate the future suitability of wine grapes, we introduced the dynamic suitability function, which allowed us to analyse the suitability of the average temperature during the growing season for 21 wine grape varieties from 2031 to 2100 in decadal increments. Additionally, a temperature impact function was introduced to characterise the suitability of 21 wine grape varieties with values ranging from 0 to 1, based on the average temperature during the growing season. The results confirmed that the frequency of temperature indices used in grape cultivation will shift distinctly towards warmer climate classes in the future. The increasingly warmer climate presents certain advantages but also has growing cultivation risks. In the most optimistic scenario, the average temperature during the growing season may decrease by 0.8°C over the next seven decades. However, in the most pessimistic model, the change expected by the end of the century exceeds a 4.0°C increase. For wine grape varieties with lower heat requirements, suitability under the pessimistic RCP 8.5 emission scenario is projected to decrease by 29% by the end of the century. Conversely, under the optimistic scenarios, the decline in suitability values is only between 3-4%. For grape varieties with higher heat requirements, a 10% decrease in suitability is expected under the RCP 8.5 scenario. In contrast, the RCP 4.5 scenario suggests that suitability could improve by 1-2% by the end of the century. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the impacts and consequences of climate change and offer insights on how to prepare for these challenges in the viticulture sector.
Nematicidal potential of Microbacterium maritypicum Sneb159 against Heterodera glycines and the complete genome sequence analysis
Authors: Zhao Jing , Xing Zhifu , Sikandar Aatika , Duan Yuxi
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Heterodera glycines is one of the most important pathogens of soybean production worldwide. Biological control provides a strategy for sustainable and environmentally friendly nematode management.

Methods

In this study, solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS) was used to reveal the volatile nematicidal compounds of Microbacterium maritypicum Sneb159 and the mode of action was further elucidated via whole genome sequencing.

Results

The present study demonstrated that M. maritypicum Sneb159 fermentation broth showed strong nematicidal activities against H. glycines. The filtrate rather than bacterial cells played a role in the nematicidal character, and reduced the invasion number as well as suppressed the development of juveniles in soybean. The analysis of chemotaxis showed that M. maritypicum Sneb159 has a repellent effect on H. glycines in pot experiments. The volatiles produced by M. maritypicum Sneb159 are toxic to H. glycines for both juveniles and eggs. The seven compounds were analyzed using SPME-GC-MS. In the bioassays, dimethyl disulfide and dimethyl trisulfide showed both direct contact and fumigated effect on juveniles and eggs. The complete genome sequence of the bacterium M. maritypicum Sneb159 was completed using the PacBio sequencing platform. The genome comprised 3895529 bp and a 68.63% G + C content. Three secondary metabolites gene clusters were predicted by the antiSMASH system.

Discussion

The findings reveal multifunction of M. maritypicum Sneb159 towards H. glycines, and has the potential to be developed as a safe nematicidal agent.
Eucalyptus grandis WRKY genes provide insight into the role of arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis in defense against Ralstonia solanacearum
Authors: Zhang Jianlang , Yang Xinzhu , Huo Chunyu , Fan Xinyi , Liu Qiutong , Liu Zhihong , Su Yu , Chen Zujing
Published: February 2025

Introduction

WRKY transcription factors are essential for plant growth, health, and responses to biotic and abiotic stress.

Methods

In this study, we performed a deep in silico characterization of the WRKY gene family in the genome of Eucalyptus grandis. We also analyzed the expression profiles of these genes upon colonization by the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF) Rhizophagus irregularis (Ri) and infection with the bacterial pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum (Rs).

Results

A total of 117 EgWRKYs were identified. Phylogenetic analysis divided the EgWRKY proteins into three groups: group I (21 proteins, 17.95%), group II (65 proteins, 55.56%), and group III (24 proteins, 20.51%). Additionally, seven EgWRKY proteins (5.98%) were categorized into group IV due to the absence of the WRKY domain or zinc-finger structure. All EgWRKY genes are distributed irregularly across the 11 chromosomes, with 25 pairs identified as segmental duplicates and four as tandem duplicates. The promoter regions of 50% of members of each subfamily contain plant hormone-related cis-elements associated with defense responses, such as ABREs, TGACG motifs, and CGTCA motifs. All subfamilies (except for group IV-b and IV-c) contain AW-boxes, which are related to mycorrhizal induction. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis revealed that 21 EgWRKYs were responsive to the AMF Ri, with 13 and 8 genes strongly up- and downregulated, respectively. Several genes (including EgWRKY116, EgWRKY62, and EgWRKY107) were significantly induced by Ri; these genes might enhance the defense of E. grandis against Rs.

Discussion

Therefore, we identified E. grandis WRKY genes that are regulated by AMF colonization, some of which might improve the defense of E. grandis against R. solanacearum. These findings provide insights into E. grandis WRKY genes involved in interactions among the host plant, AMFs, and R. solanacearum.
Comprehensive transcriptome and proteome analysis revealed the molecular mechanisms of melatonin priming and waterlogging response in peach
Authors: Gu Xianbin , Lu Linghong , Gao Jing , Fan Fei , Song Genhua , Zhang Huiqin
Published: February 2025

Waterlogging substantially hampers the growth and development of plants. The escalating trajectory of global climate change is heightening both the frequency and intensity of waterlogging events. Peach trees are particularly vulnerable to waterlogging, with the resultant hypoxia in the rhizosphere profoundly influencing their growth and productivity. This study explored the responses of peach seedlings to waterlogging and the regulatory effects of melatonin priming. After a 24-h waterlogging treatment, a significant increase in relative electrical conductivity and an accumulation of reactive oxygen species were observed, ion permeability was markedly alleviated by melatonin priming. Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses were conducted on peach root samples to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in the response to waterlogging and melatonin priming. Transcriptome analysis implicated genes related to ‘DNA-binding transcription factor activity’, such as AP2/ERF, HSF and WRKY transcription factors, in response to waterlogging. The glycolysis/gluconeogenesis pathway was also significantly enriched, indicating its critical role in the metabolic response to waterlogging. A correlation analysis between differentially expressed genes and proteins highlighted the regulation of numerous genes at both the transcriptional and translational levels. Furthermore, core DEGs/DEPs, including heat shock proteins and stress-related proteins, were identified. Notably, ERF VII member ERF071 (Prupe.8G264900), ADH (Prupe.8G018100), and PCO (Prupe.7G011000) emerged as potential targets for genetic manipulation to enhance waterlogging tolerance in peach. This research provides targets for breeding waterlogging-tolerant varieties and strategies to mitigate waterlogging stress in peach.
The use of artificial intelligence in counter-disinformation: a world wide (web) mapping
Authors: Pilati Federico , Venturini Tommaso
Published: February 2025

Disinformation has recently become a subject of widespread concerns across the globe. To combat this issue, various initiatives have emerged, aimed at identifying, tracking, and debunking disinformation. Artificial intelligence (AI) has been incorporated as a tool to counter disinformation, but its implementation has not always been successful and may even be counterproductive. Thus, there is a growing recognition of the need for benchmarking the various ongoing efforts to ensure greater efficacy and coordination in the use of AI and assure that this does not lead to forms of algorithmic censorship. Our goal is to provide a mapping of the projects that use AI to counter disinformation by means of their hyperlink network analysis to shed light on their aims, approaches, and challenges.
Online communication of citizen pressure groups in the face of the phenomenon of touristification in Spain
Authors: Godoy-Martín Francisco Javier
Published: February 2025

Spain is a proven tourist power, with a sector that contributes a high figure to the country’s economy. However, in recent years, tourist activity, especially in large cities, has encountered opposition from neighborhood groups that fight for a decrease in tourism, in order to preserve the identity of their neighborhoods and their living conditions. This research aims to describe the communication strategies employed by these citizen pressure groups on the social network X. For this purpose, an exploratory study was conducted using a quantitative methodology, whose main technique was content analysis, which was applied to a sample of 1,160 publications of 15 entities from different Spanish provinces. The results show that the main topics covered are related to the demonstrations and protest actions of these groups, as well as the tourism policies developed by authorities and the work meetings among different groups. Mobilization appears as a main objective, since 38.8% of the publications presented a tone of protest or denunciation. However, the findings also suggest that the social network X may be more suited to indirect lobbying actions.
Mental health literacy among older adults in Shanghai: a descriptive qualitative study
Authors: Xu Rongjing , Jing Mingrui , Zhang Aining , Zha Liqi , Wang Yan , Wang Anni , Tang Jun , Xia Biyun , Jia Shoumei
Published: February 2025

Background

The aging population in China is surging rapidly, and elderly individuals are at higher risk of multiple mental health issues. Improving the mental health literacy of older adults can help them recognize mental illness and adopt proactive measures, potentially improving their mental health status and supporting the goal of healthy aging.

Objective

To explore mental health literacy among older adults, providing a foundation for future interventions aimed at improving their mental health literacy.

Methods

Guided by the new conceptualization framework of mental health literacy developed by Jiang et al. the study involved 20 community-dwelling older adults from four communities in Shanghai who were selected through purposive sampling to participate in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to summarize and extract themes from the data.

Results

The qualitative analysis identified three primary themes and eight subthemes: inadequate knowledge about mental health and illnesses, negative intentions and attitudes toward maintaining mental health and preventing mental illnesses, and health behavior to promote mental health and prevent mental disorders.

Conclusion

This study reveals significant gaps in mental health literacy among older adults, underscoring the necessity for multifaceted interventions. It calls for concerted efforts from individuals, families, and society to bolster mental health knowledge, challenge stigma, and encourage supportive behaviors. By integrating these approaches with the ‘Healthy China 2030’ policy, we aim to enhance mental health literacy for the aged.
Enhancing athlete performance under pressure: the role of attribution training in mitigating choking
Authors: Huang Dan , Wang Huilin , Tang Yiwei , Lei Hanyue , Koh Denise
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Choking in athletes describes a marked reduction in their skill level, falling below the normal level, when under stress. This paradoxical performance decline, which athletes strenuously to avoid yet frequently encounter, was the focus of this study. We implemented training interventions on athletes who had experienced choking to assess their impact on fear of failure and self-criticism. Correct or improve the subjects’ inappropriate attribution of failure results, and enable them to learn to use appropriate and positive attribution, enhance motivation levels, and thus achieve the purpose of improving behavior and performance levels.

Methods

The snowball sampling technique was used to collect data through the combination of online electronic questionnaires and offline paper questionnaires, so as to explore the choking phenomenon of elite athletes by attributing the influence of training variables on self-efficacy. The research team conducted a survey of elite athletes in Central China between October and December 2023. In this study, 350 questionnaires were distributed, 350 questionnaires were collected after the questionnaires were distributed, and 328 valid questionnaires were finally eliminated through screening. And the relevant statistical analysis is carried out on the data.

Results

The results confirmed the significant correlations between attribution training and fear of failure (β = −0.548, p < 0.001), attribution training and self-criticism (β = −0.531, p < 0.001), fear of failure and self-efficacy (β = −0.240, p < 0.001), and self-criticism and self-efficacy (β = −0.408, p < 0.001). Finally, the correlation between fear of failure and self-criticism (β = −0.211, p < 0.01) was validated.

Conclusion

Athletes who underwent attribution training showed significant reductions in fear of failure and self-criticism, thereby decreasing their negative emotions, enhancing their positive emotions, and improving their self-efficacy during sports performance.
Avatars and humans may not elicit the same accent-related biases in mock courtroom research
Authors: Frumkin Lara A. , Stone Anna , Spiller Mary Jane
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Conducting research to better understand the role of extralegal factors in courtroom decision-making requires either labor intensive methods, such as simulating a trial, or approaches that are not ecologically valid, such as using short written case vignettes. If avatars could be used in simulated courtrooms, experiments could more easily manipulate extralegal variables for study without requiring significant resourcing, for example hiring actors and having access to a courtroom. The current study used previously developed stimulus materials of a human eyewitness in a courtroom and created a comparable avatar eyewitness and virtual courtroom to assess ratings of the human and avatar.

Method

Participants (N = 703) saw one of 12 videos depicting an eyewitness on the stand at a criminal trial recounting a burglary. The design was a 2 × 2 × 3, mode of presentation (human or avatar), accent (General American English or non-standard) and country of origin (Germany, Mexico or Lebanon). Three actors voiced each human and avatar pair using General American English and one of the non-standard accents (German, Mexican or Lebanese) so that variation in ratings could be attributed to presentation mode, accent and country of origin.

Results

An analysis of covariance revealed that the avatar witnesses were rated more favorably than the humans and there were no main effects of accent nor country of origin, contrary to previous research using the human video stimuli. A three-way interaction showed the Lebanese human non-standard accented witness was rated more poorly than her standard-accented counterpart, her avatar counterpart, and the Mexican and German human non-standard accented witnesses.

Discussion

Findings reveal that avatar witnesses cannot yet reliably replace their human counterparts. Discussion as to what can be done in future to further investigate how to create courtroom stimulus materials is presented along with possible explanations as to the reasons for different findings in this research than previous studies.