bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Associated With Support for COVID-19 Travel Bans: The Role of Health Beliefs and Multilevel Institutional Trust
Authors: Nancy Chen Nien-Tsu
Published: May 2024

This study examined whether the Health Belief Model and the heuristic of multilevel institutional trust would help explain U.S. residents’ support for travel bans on foreigners during the COVID-19 pandemic. Analysis of data collected from two nationwide online surveys conducted in 2020 ( n = 511 fielded between March 19 and March 27; n = 472 fielded between April 30 and May 13) suggested that support for this policy was associated with individual differences in risk and benefit perceptions, the presence of interpersonal cues, and trust in domestic and foreign institutions. Efforts to promote or resist international travel restrictions during a pandemic may benefit from accounting for these differences.
Perceived Impact of COVID-19 and Strategies for effective Implementation of Maternal and Child Health Care Services in Ethiopia: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Nigusie Adane , Fikadie Berhanu , Abebaw Zeleke , Tilahun Binyam
Published: May 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused an abrupt reduction in the use of in-person health care. Children and women of reproductive age groups might be disproportionately affected by the disruption of routine health services, particularly in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). The aim of this study was to see the potential effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternal and child health (MCH) care service utilization and strategies for effective service implementation. A phenomenological qualitative inquiry was used. For the collection of the data, an in-depth interview was employed among women and informants from all levels of the health system including the health development army in July and September 2020. The data were analyzed thematically using framework analysis. The study identified a range of COVID-19 impacts on maternal and child health service utilization in Ethiopia. Namely, reduction in accessibility and quality of routine health services, low maternal and child health service utilization, challenges in the commitment of health workers, shortage in the supply of routine resources for maternal and child health services; and enduring strategies designed for effective maternal and child health service implementation. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternal and child health service utilization was identified in a clear thematic area. The findings of this study provide evidence on bases at the local level; will help the policymakers and local administrators to develop strategies for early preparedness in the context of pandemics.
“My Shawshank Redemption”: A Self-Narrative Inquiry of an EFL Academic’s Emotions and Identities on Research Journey
Authors: Lu Hua
Published: May 2024

While there has been a surge of studies on English as a foreign language (EFL) teachers’ emotions and identities in research engagement, limited attention has been paid to how they integrate teacher and researcher identities and negotiate different emotions in research practice over time. Drawing on data from a variety of sources over a decade, this longitudinal self-narrative study investigated how an EFL academic (the author) negotiated and navigated conflicting identities and emotions in the process of becoming a teacher-researcher in a changing context. The findings unfolded the changes in her emotions and professional identity development over the course of her 10-year research journey, beginning as a discontented and perplexed performer with weak emotional resilience, progressing to a pressured and strenuous follower with moderate emotional resilience, and finally becoming a relentless and resolute integrator with strong emotional resilience. Her final integration of teacher and researcher identities represented her redemption on this bumpy journey. Implications for EFL teachers, school leaders, and education policymakers on how to help EFL academics integrate professional identities were also discussed.
How Do Older Parents With One Child Live? The Well-Being of Chinese Elders Affected by the One-Child Policy
Authors: Xu Yi , Hu Tianfan , Wang Jiahe
Published: May 2024

China’s One-Child per couple policy (OCP) has created a generation of one-child families, and these parents are now getting old. How do they live? This study examined the well-being of this cohort with four indicators: subjective (life satisfaction), mental (depression), physical (health), and psychological well-being (positive psychological functioning). Data were collected from the Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS), and parents aged 60 and above were included. We examined the well-being of one-child older adults compared with those having multiple children across age groups and investigated the effects of children support and rural-urban difference. Compared with those with multiple children, one-child older adults were not at a disadvantage. They were significantly better in mental and physical well-being, with no difference in subjective or psychological well-being. One-child parents had a more stable pattern of subjective and mental well-being across age groups (60–64, 65–69, 70+). Among the three types of support, emotional support significantly predicted psychological well-being. Furthermore, urban older adults, of whom the majority were one-child parents, valued much more emotional support than their peers in rural areas. The findings suggest that the generation of Chinese older adults affected by the OCP live fairly well, and the parental status may shift older adults’ focus on filial piety expectations.
Testing Integrative Models of the Change Behavior in the Intention to Adopt Cryptocurrency
Authors: Doblas Mark P. , Becaro Jishanis Mae G. , P. Sankar Jayendira , Natarajan Vinodh K. , G. Yoganandham , G. Arumugasamy
Published: May 2024

This study explores the adoption of cryptocurrency, specifically Bitcoin, in the Philippines. The authors argue that current behavioral prediction models, such as TRA, TPB, and TAM, do not adequately account for the affective constructs of decision-making when high monetary stakes are involved. To address this gap, the authors propose an integrative model that accounts for financial decision-making processes, risk constructs, and population-specific behavioral strategies. The study used a quantitative-based research design and involved 684 university students from one of the major state universities in the Philippines. The findings show that perceived usefulness, attitude toward cryptocurrency, self-efficacy, and descriptive norms significantly influenced the intention to adopt cryptocurrency. Overall, the study confirms the direct influence of instrumental attitude, knowledge of cryptocurrency, descriptive norm, risk tolerance, ease and difficulty, and control on an individual’s intention to use cryptocurrency. The study contributes to exploring a less studied Philippine consumer base and provides empirical findings and insights into Bitcoin adoption in developing Asian economies.

JEL Classification: G15. G17, G41, P33, G32.
Unlocking Financial Well-Being for People With Disabilities: The Importance of Financial Knowledge and Socialization Within the Family Context
Authors: Kim Kyoung Tae , Lee Jonghee
Published: May 2024

Improving the financial well-being of people with disabilities is a pressing concern, given the documented lower levels of financial well-being among this population compared to the general population. Limited research, however, offers effective strategies for improving their financial well-being. This study investigates how financial knowledge and family financial socialization can be combined to enhance the financial well-being of people with disabilities. Using data from the 2016 National Financial Well-Being Survey, we employ multivariate analyses and propensity score matching techniques to test the robustness of our results and ensure our population comprised a nationally representative sample of people with disabilities. Our findings show that people with disabilities experience lower levels of financial well-being compared to those without disabilities. Furthermore, we find that self-assessed financial knowledge and financial socialization within the family context are positively associated with the financial well-being of people with disabilities. These findings have important implications for researchers and financial service professionals who work with people with disabilities. This study emphasizes the importance of tailoring financial education to the specific needs of people with disabilities and prioritizing financial education and financial socialization within the family context as critical mechanisms for enhancing their financial well-being.
Time to Degree, Identity, and Grant Writing: Lessons Learned From a Mixed-Methods Longitudinal Case Study of Biosciences PhD Students
Authors: Alvero AJ , Peña Courtney , Moore Amber R. , Luqueño Leslie , Barron Cisco B. , Steele Latishya , Eberle Stevie , Botham Crystal M.
Published: May 2024

Time to degree completion is an important metric of academic progress and success for doctoral students. It is also a common way for educational stakeholders to compare programs even if the content of the degree programs varies. But what types of behaviors and experiences are associated with faster times to degree? In this study, we examine the relationship between receiving competitive research awards (e.g., grant writing) and time to degree for PhD students. We organize our analyses by student identities, specifically gender and underrepresented racial minority (URM) status, to examine differences in time to degree based on student demographics. Our dataset included students that graduated between academic years 2008 to 2009 through 2018 to 2019. We also interviewed students currently enrolled in these same programs. We find that underrepresented minority women who won competitive research awards graduate faster than all other students who also won awards but also report lower levels of advisor support. Underrepresented minority women and all underrepresented minority students who won research awards tended to graduate faster compared to other groups of students who did not win awards. Students who reported feeling supported by their advisors, most of which reflected hands-on guidance through the writing process, in the interviews were more likely to apply for grants. Combined, these results highlight that writing grants and specific types of advisor support may influence faster times to degree for biosciences PhD students. This study suggests similar introspective analyses at other institutions and databases are needed.
Teaching English Online During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Saudi Arabia: Challenges and Pedagogical Opportunities
Authors: Aldayel Hessah Saleh
Published: May 2024

With the spread of COVID-19 all over the world, the transformation of the educational system and the implementation of remote lessons became the only possible variant to continue the process of teaching students for English as a foreign language (EFL) teachers. This tendency was unexpected and became rather difficult for teachers and administrators who were typically not involved in online education to facilitate that change smoothly. The purpose of the study is to investigate the pedagogical opportunities and challenges for teachers who have to work online during the pandemic organizing the lessons of foreign languages in Saudi Arabia. The study is based on the analysis of the information received during qualitative semi-structured interviews with teachers from Saudi Arabian Universities and English language centers who use online classes as an alternative to traditional English lessons. The results of the study show that from the teacher’s perspective, challenges included a lack of student engagement, unnatural communication patterns, unusual requirements for planning content, and technical difficulties. The study found that remote education is hampered by low student engagement, lack of appropriate technology, incompatibility with new technologies, emotional stress, communication issues, student perception of material, attention on work, and inability to communicate with teachers and classmates. Moreover, the major findings include the solutions to the existing issues of online education, such as the creation of compelling content, the use of powerful online tools, the provision of effective platforms to students, the deeper focus on listening skills, and the use of technologies.
Measurement Equivalence Test on Family Cohesion Scale: Comparison Models for White, Black, Hispanic, and Asian College or University Students in the U.S.
Authors: Shon En-Jung , Lee Lena , Ki Youn , Choe Siyoung , James Anthony , Lee Eunice
Published: May 2024

Cohesion measure launched from the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale (FACES) is a well-known instrument to assess family functioning. It is essential to perform a measurement equivalence test of cohesion targeting racially diverse families. The web-based self-administered survey was performed and 291 college/university students’ responses in Ohio were collected (Whites = 37.5%, Hispanics = 23%, Asians = 23%, and Blacks = 16.5%). This study explicated measurement equivalence for family cohesion structure (balanced cohesion, disengagement, enmeshed). The multiple group analysis was performed to investigate whether parameters in the measurement models of the “cohesion sub-structures (balanced cohesion, disengagement, enmeshed; 7 items of each)” were equivalent across the four racial groups. While “balanced cohesion” and “disengagement” structures showed measurement invariance across the groups, the “enmeshed” structure showed significant measurement variance across the groups. Two-items, “Family members feel pressured to spend most free time together” and “We feel too connected to each other” were inadequate for Hispanics’ enmeshment. One-item, “Family members have little need for friends outside the family” was inadequate to explain enmeshment of Blacks and Asians. Professionals should be aware of possible misinterpretations of results from the cohesion measure of FACES IV when they particularly assess the enmeshment status of racially diverse families with closer attention to cross-cultural comparability.
A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis of Attitudes and Behaviors on Early Fertility Among Young Women in Selected Regions in Nicaragua
Authors: Hansen Shiho
Published: May 2024

Nicaragua has one of the highest adolescent fertility rates in Latin America and in the Caribbean. However, studies on adolescent pregnancies are limited. This study investigates the mechanism of early fertility among women aged 15 to 24 in northern central and eastern regions (NC-E) and the Pacific region (PAC), using data from the Nicaraguan Demographic and Health Survey 2011/12 ( N = 2,600). Structural equation modeling analysis was conducted in NC-E and PAC to examine the associations between exogenous variables (ethnicity and residence), mediators (education, sexuality education, knowledge and attitudes on pregnancy prevention, and sexual behaviors), and outcome (early fertility). The results showed educational attainment and sexual behaviors were crucial mediators of early fertility in NC-E and PAC, whereas sexuality education was only in NC-E. Residence was an exogenous variable in both groups, whereas ethnicity was not. Although educational attainment and sexuality education would improve knowledge, they did not contribute to reducing risky sexual behaviors. Further discussions on ethnic differences and variables measuring the actual decision-making related to risky sexual behaviors are suggested.
Multilateral Cooperation in Northeast Asia: Insights from Micro-Regional Cooperation in the Greater Tumen Initiative (GTI)
Authors: Park Jiyoun
Published: May 2024

This paper examines multilateral cooperation in Northeast Asia (NEA) through the Greater Tumen Initiative (GTI) as a case of micro-regional cooperation. Drawing on functionalism and micro-regionalism, it explores how cooperation spillover from nonpolitical to political spheres can be facilitated by considering participant diversity, agenda comprehensiveness, and the complexity of cooperation. There is an overall positive trajectory of change as the GTI actively fosters cooperation spillover by expanding its committees and partnerships. However, in terms of committee activities, although its agendas demonstrate increasing comprehensiveness, participant diversity and collaboration complexity remain low in general. The partnerships are in their nascent stages of cooperation, exhibiting limited spillover, except for the NEA Local Cooperation Committee. Moreover, the challenge in evaluating accomplishments within the framework of the GTI arises from the apparent scarcity of discernible achievements. To revitalize multilateral cooperation, the GTI should enhance actor diversity, emphasizing private sector participation; broaden discussion agendas rather than exclusively focus on specific projects until institutional stability is established in cooperation; and enhance governance mechanisms and foster cooperation among internal organizations, currently vulnerable to disruptions, to ensure progressive and sustained collaborative efforts. Through these enhancements, it is anticipated that tangible outcomes will be uncovered and, ultimately, foster micro-regional multilateral cooperation that can significantly contribute to peace and prosperity in the Northeast Asia region.
Nomadic Roots and Contemporary Realities: An Exploration of the Waghri Community in Punjab
Authors: Goyal Priyanka Airi , Das Ankita , Singh Ankita
Published: May 2024

Nomadism persists as a relevant phenomenon in contemporary society. This study delves into the Waghri community, a nomadic community that originally hails from Gujarat but settled in Punjab for the past three or four generations. Having encountered stigmatisation during the British rule, the community was labelled a criminal tribe in the Bombay Presidency. This study aimed to understand the culture, belief and practice dynamics of the Waghri community, shaped by their nomadic history and current circumstances. Furthermore, it seeks to delve into their experiences with historical stigmatisation, contemporary adaptation strategies and the cultural forces moulding their identity and means of sustenance. This study was carried out in the urban areas of Punjab under the national project of the Anthropological Survey of India entitled Ethnographic Study of 226 De-Notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities. The data were collected using snowball and random sampling methods. The tools used for data collection included a structured schedule, focus group discussions and individual interviews. The findings of the study reveal that the migration of the Waghri community, driven by the pursuit of enhanced livelihoods, has resulted in a widespread presence across India, featuring various sub-castes distinguished by traditional occupations and territorial affiliations. Remarkably, these sub-castes lack social hierarchies, uniting around their common clan deity rather than fostering internal divisions. Devotees of the goddess Durga, the community now identifies as Devipujak. Engaged in the trade of recycling second-hand clothes, they have established harmonious ties with the neighbouring communities, predominantly residing in urban areas, as their livelihood depends on middle and upper-middle-class families. Despite facing stigma in their native Gujarat, the Waghri community finds acceptance in Punjab, where they are recognised more as Gujarati than Waghri. Economically disadvantaged and educationally marginalised, the community leads a precarious existence unaccounted for by the government. This study illuminates their resilience in preserving cultural traditions amidst uncertainties about their future. Their adaptation strategies, including social cohesion and niche economic activity, offer insights into social mobility, identity negotiation, and the complex realities of marginalised communities in India.
Cryptocurrency and Macroeconomic Dynamics: Case of 10 Asian Economies
Authors: Abdelkaoui Fatma , Sidaoui Ali , Nasser Feriel , Bouzidi Meriem
Published: May 2024

This research study investigates the impact of cryptocurrency on economic growth in 10 countries across Asia during past period 2013–2020. For this purpose, the sample included a range of economies with the highest number of Bitcoin usages or transactions. For this purpose, the sample included a range of economies with the highest number of Bitcoin usages or transactions, according to recent international rankings. With specific empirical means on panel data modelling, we attempted to show that economic growth, was influenced negatively by the cryptocurrency ‘Bitcoin’, and we concluded that this instrument leads to an increase in the inflation rate in a country according to the quantity theory of money and leads to a disorder in the monetary policy of a country. Our framework shows that the economic growth proxy was substantially influenced positively by economic indicators such as technology, investment and education but negatively by the high rate of participation, which caused an increase in unemployment. Our empirical results offer insights and insist on the importance of the intervention of the authorities to oversee and control the use of the cryptocurrency Bitcoin to avoid its negative effects and implement a strategy that overcomes these effects from a macroeconomic perspective.

JEL Classification: E22, E24, E42, F43, E44, E52
Racial Appraisals by White, Black, Hispanic, and Multiracial Americans
Authors: Ghoshal Raj
Published: May 2024

Racial appraisals, defined as people’s judgments of other people’s race, influence racial inequality and discrimination, anti-discrimination efforts, and collective identity. I conduct a survey of 1,102 American adults of all races that builds on recent scholarship about how Americans assess others’ race, in two ways. First, I examine a wider range of cues for race than prior studies. I uncover novel evidence that self-identification and small group (family and intra-cultural) judgments shape appraisals, especially for Hispanic and Native American targets. I also find support for prior work showing that cues like appearance and ancestry are important signals. Second, I move beyond prior studies’ focus on White Americans’ appraisals; I examine how several different racial groups appraise race. I find some similarities but also striking differences, particularly in the wider range of experiential and small group cues that Black and Hispanic Americans use when assessing Whiteness, Blackness, and Latinidad, compared with Whites. I argue that four group-level differences in appraisal patterns uncovered here are rooted in specific aspects of America’s history of racial domination, and consider implications.
Motivations Driving Career Choices: Insights From a Study Among Nursing Students
Authors: Ait Ali Driss , Ncila Oumaima , Ouhhamou Soukaina , Rizzo Amelia , Chirico Francesco , Khabbache Hicham
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Globally, the nursing workforce is crucial to the functioning of healthcare systems. The alarming shortage of nursing staff necessitates careful consideration of the challenging aspects related to this issue to develop successful strategies for attracting and retaining nurses.

Objectives

This study aims to explore the motivational factors influencing the decision of students to choose a nursing career and the associated factors.

Methods

In this cross-sectional research, a questionnaire was administered to 308 students studying nursing at the Higher Institute of Nursing Professions and Health Techniques.

Results

The results of this study revealed several factors influencing the decision of nursing students to choose this profession. The desire to contribute to society and have a positive impact on individuals’ lives was identified as the primary motivating factor. Economic considerations also played a significant role. Additionally, it was found that the educational level of parents is a factor influencing students’ decisions.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of various factors in the decision-making process of nursing students. By considering these results, policymakers and healthcare professionals can create an environment conducive to attracting and retaining future nurses.
The Effect of Family Nursing Conversations as an Add-on to Multidisciplinary Treatment in Patients with Chronic Non-Cancer Pain: A Quasi-Experimental Trial
Authors: Rønne Pernille Friis , Esbensen Bente Appel , Brødsgaard Anne , Andersen Lasse Østergaard , Sørensen Bo-Biering , Hansen Carrinna Aviaja
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP) is a lifelong condition with radical consequences, calling for management involving patients’ families. Interventions based on the family systems nursing framework by Wright and Leahey have proved beneficial in other populations but require investigation in a CNCP population. This trial assumed that family nursing conversations (FNCs) based on the family systems nursing framework would increase patients’ and family members’ self-efficacy concerning CNCP management.

Objective

To investigate whether an intervention with FNCs as an add-on to the usual multidisciplinary treatment of CNCP would have an effect on patients’ and family members’ self-efficacy. Additionally, to investigate any impact on family function, health-related quality of life, anxiety, and depression.

Methods

The trial applied a prospective non-blinded quasi-experimental design with two comparable groups of patients and family members: a historical control group (HCG) and an intervention group (IG). The intervention was executed by nurses employed at a multidisciplinary pain center in the Capital Region of Denmark. HCG data were collected before the nurses’ intervention training. The primary outcome was self-efficacy. Secondary outcomes were family function, health-related quality of life, anxiety, and depression.

Results

In total, 58 patients and 85 family members were included. The primary outcome, self-efficacy, detected no statistically significant between-group differences in mean change for patients, p = .990, or family members, p = .765. A statistically significant effect in favor of the IG was found in between-group differences in mean change in patients’ behavioral family function, p = .034, and anxiety, p = .031. No statistically significant between-group differences were detected in family members’ secondary outcomes.

Conclusion

The intervention had no effect on patients’ or family members’ self-efficacy but a positive effect on patients’ behavioral family function and anxiety. The intervention was deeply affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Hence, any results should be interpreted with caution.
Functional Morphologic Changes of the Heel Fat Pad and Plantar Fascia in Patients With Heel Pain During Weightbearing and Nonweightbearing
Authors: Maemichi Toshihiro , Matsumoto Masatomo , Tsutsui Toshiharu , Ichikawa Shota , Okunuki Takumi , Tanaka Hirofumi , Kumai Tsukasa
Published: May 2024

Background:

This study aimed to investigate the thickness changes of the heel fat pad and the plantar fascia associated with loading and unloading in healthy individuals and patients with heel pain and reveal the differences between them.

Methods:

The study included adult male participants with (n = 9) and without (n = 26) heel pain. The participants placed their right foot on an evaluation apparatus with a polymethylpentene resin board (PMP), while their left foot was positioned on a weighing scale used to adjust the loading weight. The heel fat pad was differentiated into superficial Microchamber and deep Macrochamber layers. These layers and plantar fascia thickness were measured using an ultrasonographic imaging device at loading phase ranging from 0% to 100% of their body weight and unloading phase from 100% to 0%. Additionally, the study examined the thickness change ratios of the superficial and deep heel fat pad layers when the load increased from 0% (unload) to 100% (full load).

Results:

In healthy individuals and patients with heel pain, no significant thickness changes were observed in the Microchamber layer of the heel fat pad or the plantar fascia during loading and unloading evaluations. However, significant thickness changes were observed in the Macrochamber layer of the heel fat pad, and the pattern of change differed between the loading and unloading phases. Additionally, patients with heel pain showed differences in the thickness change and thickness change ratios of the microchamber and macrochamber layers of the heel fat pad during both loading and unloading phases. The thickness of the plantar fascia did not show significant differences between both groups.

Conclusion:

Compared with healthy individuals, in our relatively small study, patients with heel pain had greater deep fat pad compression in loading and less recovery after load removal. This finding suggests that these patients have different intrinsic fat pad function and related morphology than those without heel pain.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Ground-motion models for inelastic response spectra using NGA-West2 database
Authors: Bahrampouri Mahdi , Bozorgnia Yousef , Campbell Kenneth W , Mazzoni Silvia
Published: May 2024

This article presents ground-motion models (GMMs) for inelastic response spectra using the NGA-West2 database. The inelastic response spectra are defined in terms of constant ductility. The GMMs are used to observe the effect of event scenarios, site conditions, and oscillator properties on maximum displacement. Using a large database enabled us to quantify the magnitude scaling of inelastic response as compared to that for the traditional elastic GMMs. We observe that using the magnitude scaling of elastic GMM for hazard analysis of inelastic structural response can be unconservative for large magnitudes and large ductility ratios. To compare our models with models in the literature, we use the developed GMMs to compute the Reduction Factor due to inelasticity. Comparison of this model with models in the literature shows the importance of considering the effect of magnitude on the Reduction Factor. We also observe that the ratio of RotD100/RotD50 is larger for inelastic single-degree-of-freedom system than that for elastic system, and the ratio increases with increasing ductility.
A Typology of Project Types and Processes Offering Flexibility for the Project Manager
Authors: Loch Christoph , Jiang Mengtong , Si Haijian
Published: May 2024

We present a typology in which commonly encountered project types and widely used project management process types are matched. This generates four propositions: (1) Process types match project types but do not cover all encountered project types; (2) a formal project management change process should be articulated; (3) the project management processes represent a portfolio that can help managers address project types (or other nonroutine challenges for the organization) in productive ways; and (4), while array and wicked projects cannot be fully addressed by any one of the project management processes, combinations of the processes may be able to deliver such projects.
Hydroxyl-bearing bortolanite from the Lovozero alkaline massif, Kola Peninsula, Russia
Authors: Selivanova Ekaterina A. , Pakhomovsky Yakov A. , Lyalina Lyudmila M. , Kompanchenko Alena A. , Mikhailova Julia A. , Zolotarev Andrey A.
Published: May 2024

Bortolanite, a rare mineral of the rinkite group, seidozerite supergroup occurs in two different associations in the Lovozero massif in the Kola Peninsula, Russia: (1) together with ferri-katophorite and phlogopite, it forms porous or mesh aggregates (symplectitic accretions) with euhedral contours in the contact zone of a volcano–sedimentary xenolith and eudialyte lujavrite at Kuamdespakhk Mt and (2) in intergrowths with titanite and fluorcaphite in the poikilitic feldspathoid syenites at Sengischorr Mt. In both cases, bortolanite was found in association with rosenbuschite that is close to it in chemical composition, but unlike bortolanite, it contains no REEs. The mineral is triclinic, space group P$\bar{1}$, a = 9.5807(5), b = 5.6943(4), c = 7.2813(4) Å, α = 89.891(5)°, β = 100.959(4)°, γ = 101.241(5)°, V = 382.25(4) Å3 and Z = 1.

The Lovozero bortolanite differs from the Brazilian holotype sample from de Caldas alkaline massif, Minas Gerais, due to the presence of (OH)-groups in its composition, which is indicated by Raman data. A combination of single-crystal X-ray diffraction data and electron microprobe data provides the following crystal-chemical formula: (Ca1.97Ce0.01Nd0.01Th0.01)Σ2(Ca1.39Zr0.61)Σ2(Na0.72Ca0.28)Σ1(Na1.36Ca0.56Mn0.03Zn0.01)Σ1.96(Ti0.78Zr0.08Nb0.05Mg0.05Fe0.04)Σ1Si4O14((OH)0.92O0.87F0.21)Σ2F2.
Phase 1 study of CAR-37 T cells in patients with relapsed or refractory CD37+ lymphoid malignancies
Authors: Frigault Matthew J. , Graham Charlotte E. , Berger Trisha R. , Ritchey Julie , Horick Nora K. , El-Jawahri Areej , Scarfò Irene , Schmidts Andrea , Haradhvala Nicholas J. , Wehrli Marc , Lee Won-Ho , Parker Aiyana L. , Wiggin Hadley R. , Bouffard Amanda , Dey Aonkon , Leick Mark B. , Katsis Katelin , Elder Eva L. , Dolaher Maria A. , Cook Daniella T. , Chekmasova Alena A. , Huang Lu , Nikiforow Sarah , Daley Heather , Ritz Jerome , Armant Myriam , Preffer Fred , DiPersio John F. , Nardi Valentina , Chen Yi-Bin , Gallagher Kathleen M. E. , Maus Marcela V.
Published: May 2024

We report a first-in-human clinical trial using chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells targeting CD37, an antigen highly expressed in B- and T-cell malignancies. Five patients with relapsed or refractory CD37+ lymphoid malignancies were enrolled and infused with autologous CAR-37 T cells. CAR-37 T cells expanded in the peripheral blood of all patients and, at peak, comprised >94% of the total lymphocytes in 4 of 5 patients. Tumor responses were observed in 4 of 5 patients with 3 complete responses, 1 mixed response, and 1 patient whose disease progressed rapidly and with relative loss of CD37 expression. Three patients experienced prolonged and severe pancytopenia, and in 2 of these patients, efforts to ablate CAR-37 T cells, which were engineered to coexpress truncated epidermal growth factor receptor, with cetuximab were unsuccessful. Hematopoiesis was restored in these 2 patients after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. No other severe, nonhematopoietic toxicities occurred. We investigated the mechanisms of profound pancytopenia and did not observe activation of CAR-37 T cells in response to hematopoietic stem cells in vitro or hematotoxicity in humanized models. Patients with pancytopenia had sustained high levels of interleukin-18 (IL-18) with low levels of IL-18 binding protein in their peripheral blood. IL-18 levels were significantly higher in CAR-37–treated patients than in both cytopenic and noncytopenic cohorts of CAR-19–treated patients. In conclusion, CAR-37 T cells exhibited antitumor activity, with significant CAR expansion and cytokine production. CAR-37 T cells may be an effective therapy in hematologic malignancies as a bridge to hematopoietic stem cell transplant. This trial was registered at www.ClinicalTrials.gov as #NCT04136275.
Oblique radiographic measurement of knot position and orientation in logs
Authors: Schajer Gary S.
Published: May 2024

A novel X-ray scanner system to identify the positions of knots in logs is described. The scanner has a simple, low-cost design that is suitable for use in medium and smaller sawmills. It makes X-ray measurements in an oblique direction as the log moves longitudinally past the X-ray source and line-detector. This unconventional oblique measurement direction creates a more side-on view that better reveals the spatial arrangement of the knots within the log. This view, when combined with the knowledge that all knots start from along the pith and radiate outwards gives sufficient information to identify knot orientations in space. Experimental oblique X-ray measurements on a sample log are described, followed by the processing and analysis of the measured radiographs, and a comparison of the results with independent measurements of knot locations. With the knot identification algorithms developed, knot axial position could be identified within 11 mm, and knot circumferential orientation with a root mean square (rms) error of 7.9°–11.6° when using a single view X-ray scanner, or 5.6°–7.7° when using a dual view scanner.
Impaired synaptic plasticity and decreased glutamatergic neuron excitability induced by SIRT1/BDNF downregulation in the hippocampal CA1 region are involved in postoperative cognitive dysfunction
Authors: Wu Wei-Feng , Chen Chen , Lin Jia-Tao , Jiao Xin-Hao , Dong Wei , Wan Jie , Liu Qiang , Qiu Yong-Kang , Sun Ao , Liu Yi-Qi , Jin Chun-Hui , Huang He , Zheng Hui , Zhou Cheng-Hua , Wu Yu-Qing
Published: May 2024

Background

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a common complication after anesthesia/surgery, especially among elderly patients, and poses a significant threat to their postoperative quality of life and overall well-being. While it is widely accepted that elderly patients may experience POCD following anesthesia/surgery, the exact mechanism behind this phenomenon remains unclear. Several studies have indicated that the interaction between silent mating type information regulation 2 homologue 1 (SIRT1) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is crucial in controlling cognitive function and is strongly linked to neurodegenerative disorders. Hence, this research aims to explore how SIRT1/BDNF impacts cognitive decline caused by anesthesia/surgery in aged mice.

Methods

Open field test (OFT) was used to determine whether anesthesia/surgery affected the motor ability of mice, while the postoperative cognitive function of 18 months old mice was evaluated with Novel object recognition test (NORT), Object location test (OLT) and Fear condition test (FC). The expressions of SIRT1 and other molecules were analyzed by western blot and immunofluorescence staining. The hippocampal synaptic plasticity was detected by Golgi staining and Long-term potentiation (LTP). The effects of SIRT1 and BDNF overexpression as well as chemogenetic activation of glutamatergic neurons in hippocampal CA1 region of 18 months old vesicular glutamate transporter 1 (VGLUT1) mice on POCD were further investigated.

Results

The research results revealed that older mice exhibited cognitive impairment following intramedullary fixation of tibial fracture. Additionally, a notable decrease in the expression of SIRT1/BDNF and neuronal excitability in hippocampal CA1 glutamatergic neurons was observed. By increasing levels of SIRT1/BDNF or enhancing glutamatergic neuron excitability in the CA1 region, it was possible to effectively mitigate synaptic plasticity impairment and ameliorate postoperative cognitive dysfunction.

Conclusions

The decline in SIRT1/BDNF levels leading to changes in synaptic plasticity and neuronal excitability in older mice could be a significant factor contributing to cognitive impairment after anesthesia/surgery.

Graphical Abstract
Can relative abundance of diatoms (RAD) serve as an indicator for the water quality assessment in river-connected lakes? A case study at Dongting Lake
Authors: Yan Guanghan , Yin Xueyan , Wang Xing , Huang Minsheng
Published: May 2024

In this study, 15 sampling sites were set up in Dongting Lake, a typical river-connected lake in China, to investigate water quality and diatioms in March, June, September and December from year 2017 to 2022. Seven diatom indices, including relative abundance of diatoms (RAD), percentage motile diatoms (PMD), generic diatom index (GDI), diatom quotient (DU), pollution tolerance index for diatoms (PTI), trophic diatom index (TDI), and Pampean diatom index (IDP), were selected to screen the adaptability of water quality assessment comparing with the Nemero index (NI), which is simple to calculate and has always been the main method for water quality assessment in Dongting Lake. The results from 2017 to 2019 showed that the diatom density in Dongting Lake ranged from 0.7 × 104 to 85.5 × 104 ind./L, with a certain decreasing trend. The spatial and temporal changes of some water quality factors were obvious, just like the temperature of water (WT), ammonia nitrogen (NH4+–N), dissolved oxygen (DO) and the comprehensive trophic level index (∑TLI) ranged from 45.99 to 50.72, with an average value of 47.85, indicating that the overall condition of Dongting Lake was medium nutrition. Correlation analysis showed that PTI, RAD and PMD could represent the information of DU, GDI, TDI and IDP, and were significantly positively correlated with DO (p < 0.01), while significantly negatively correlated with electrical conductivity (Cond), potassium permanganate (CODMn), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), chemical oxygen demand (CODCr) and ∑TLI (p < 0.001). The index verification results from year 2020 to 2022 showed that PTI, RAD and PMD were all significantly positively correlated with NI (p < 0.001). Taking into account the data integrity of the index calculation and the difficulty degree, RAD was finally selected as the biological indicator for evaluating the water quality of Dongting Lake. The results of this study provide a new path or alternative method for water quality assessment of the river-connected lakes.
Exploring the gene expression network involved in the heat stress response of a thermotolerant tomato genotype
Authors: Graci Salvatore , Cigliano Riccardo Aiese , Barone Amalia
Published: May 2024

Background

The increase in temperatures due to the current climate change dramatically affects crop cultivation, resulting in yield losses and altered fruit quality. Tomato is one of the most extensively grown and consumed horticultural products, and although it can withstand a wide range of climatic conditions, heat stress can affect plant growth and development specially on the reproductive stage, severely influencing the final yield. In the present work, the heat stress response mechanisms of one thermotolerant genotype (E42) were investigated by exploring its regulatory gene network. This was achieved through a promoter analysis based on the identification of the heat stress elements (HSEs) mapping in the promoters, combined with a gene co-expression network analysis aimed at identifying interactions among heat-related genes.

Results

Results highlighted 82 genes presenting HSEs in the promoter and belonging to one of the 52 gene networks obtained by the GCN analysis; 61 of these also interact with heat shock factors (Hsfs). Finally, a list of 13 candidate genes including two Hsfs, nine heat shock proteins (Hsps) and two GDSL esterase/lipase (GELPs) were retrieved by focusing on those E42 genes exhibiting HSEs in the promoters, interacting with Hsfs and showing variants, compared to Heinz reference genome, with HIGH and/or MODERATE impact on the translated protein. Among these, the Gene Ontology annotation analysis evidenced that only LeHsp100 (Solyc02g088610) belongs to a network specifically involved in the response to heat stress.

Conclusions

As a whole, the combination of bioinformatic analyses carried out on genomic and trascriptomic data available for tomato, together with polymorphisms detected in HS-related genes of the thermotolerant E42 allowed to determine a subset of candidate genes involved in the HS response in tomato. This study provides a novel approach in the investigation of abiotic stress response mechanisms and further studies will be conducted to validate the role of the highlighted genes.
Testing plastomes and nuclear ribosomal DNA sequences as the next-generation DNA barcodes for species identification and phylogenetic analysis in Acer
Authors: Fu Ning , Xu Yong , Jin Lu , Xiao Tian-Wen , Song Feng , Yan Hai-Fei , Chen You-Sheng , Ge Xue-Jun
Published: May 2024

Background

Acer is a taxonomically intractable and speciose genus that contains over 150 species. It is challenging to distinguish Acer species only by morphological method due to their abundant variations. Plastome and nuclear ribosomal DNA (nrDNA) sequences are recommended as powerful next-generation DNA barcodes for species discrimination. However, their efficacies were still poorly studied. The current study will evaluate the application of plastome and nrDNA in species identification and perform phylogenetic analyses for Acer.

Result

Based on a collection of 83 individuals representing 55 species (c. 55% of Chinese species) from 13 sections, our barcoding analyses demonstrated that plastomes exhibited the highest (90.47%) species discriminatory power among all plastid DNA markers, such as the standard plastid barcodes matK + rbcL + trnH-psbA (61.90%) and ycf1 (76.19%). And the nrDNA (80.95%) revealed higher species resolution than ITS (71.43%). Acer plastomes show abundant interspecific variations, however, species identification failure may be due to the incomplete lineage sorting (ILS) and chloroplast capture resulting from hybridization. We found that the usage of nrDNA contributed to identifying those species that were unidentified by plastomes, implying its capability to some extent to mitigate the impact of hybridization and ILS on species discrimination. However, combining plastome and nrDNA is not recommended given the cytonuclear conflict caused by potential hybridization. Our phylogenetic analysis covering 19 sections (95% sections of Acer) and 128 species (over 80% species of this genus) revealed pervasive inter- and intra-section cytonuclear discordances, hinting that hybridization has played an important role in the evolution of Acer.

Conclusion

Plastomes and nrDNA can significantly improve the species resolution in Acer. Our phylogenetic analysis uncovered the scope and depth of cytonuclear conflict in Acer, providing important insights into its evolution.
Radiating diversification and niche conservatism jointly shape the inverse latitudinal diversity gradient of Potentilla L. (Rosaceae)
Authors: Xue Tiantian , Feng Tao , Liang Yunfen , Yang Xudong , Qin Fei , Yu Jianghong , Janssens Steven B. , Yu Shengxiang
Published: May 2024

Background

The latitudinal diversity gradient (LDG), characterized by an increase in species richness from the poles to the equator, is one of the most pervasive biological patterns. However, inverse LDGs, in which species richness peaks in extratropical regions, are also found in some lineages and their causes remain unclear. Here, we test the roles of evolutionary time, diversification rates, and niche conservatism in explaining the inverse LDG of Potentilla (ca. 500 species). We compiled the global distributions of ~ 90% of Potentilla species, and reconstructed a robust phylogenetic framework based on whole-plastome sequences. Next, we analyzed the divergence time, ancestral area, diversification rate, and ancestral niche to investigate the macroevolutionary history of Potentilla.

Results

The genus originated in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau during the late Eocene and gradually spread to other regions of the Northern Hemisphere posterior to the late Miocene. Rapid cooling after the late Pliocene promoted the radiating diversification of Potentilla. The polyploidization, as well as some cold-adaptive morphological innovations, enhanced the adaptation of Potentilla species to the cold environment. Ancestral niche reconstruction suggests that Potentilla likely originated in a relatively cool environment. The species richness peaks at approximately 45 °N, a region characterized by high diversification rates, and the environmental conditions are similar to the ancestral climate niche. Evolutionary time was not significantly correlated with species richness in the latitudinal gradient.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the elevated diversification rates in middle latitude regions and the conservatism in thermal niches jointly determined the inverse LDG in Potentilla. This study highlights the importance of integrating evolutionary and ecological approaches to explain the diversity pattern of biological groups on a global scale.