bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Moderate levels of dissolved iron stimulate cellular growth and increase lipid storage in Symbiodinium sp.
Authors: Dellisanti* Walter , Murthy* Swathi , Bollati Elena , Sandberg Sara Prehn , Kühl Michael 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Dinoflagellates in the family Symbiodiniaceae are fundamental in coral reef ecosystems and facilitate essential processes such as photosynthesis, nutrient cycling, and calcium carbonate production. Iron (Fe) is an essential element for the physiological processes of Symbiodiniaceae, yet its role remains poorly understood in the context of cellular development and metabolic health. Here, we investigated the effect of iron availability (0 to 100 nM Fe(III)) on Symbiodiniumsp. ITS2 type A1 cultures and quantified cellular content using flow cytometry and holotomography. Moderate levels of dissolved Fe (50 nM) enhanced growth rates and cellular content development in Symbiodinium sp., including lipids and proteins. We observed distinct growth patterns, pigment concentrations, and cellular morphology under increasing Fe concentrations, indicating the influence of iron availability on cellular physiology. Non-destructive, label-free holotomographic microscopy enabled single cell in vivo revealing higher intracellular lipid accumulation (+57%) in response to 50 nM Fe(III) enrichment. Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the relationship between iron availability and Symbiodiniumsp. growth and cellular development, with potential implications for coral health and reef resilience in the face of environmental stressors.

*Walter Dellisanti and Swathi Murthy contributed equally to this manuscript.
Human bioaccumulation of micro- and nanoplastics is primarily determined by the organs' vascular volume
Authors: Ganan-Calvo Alfonso M. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Recent studies have demonstrated the accumulation of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) in human organs, particularly in the brain, at an alarming rate (Campen et al., 2024, doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-4345687/v1). This study examines the phenomenon of bioaccumulation in relation to up to six distinct biological and biomedical parameters pertaining to vascular structure and composition in three organ tissues: the brain cortex, kidney, and liver. As anticipated based on fundamental mechanistic considerations of bioaccumulation (washing rate), the MNP content appears to be proportional to the inverse of the capillary volume fraction ($V_c$), exhibiting no correlation with any other geometric variable, such as capillary diameter or capillary segment length. This finding is consistent with the small size spectra of MNPs in comparison to these dimensions. However, contrary to expectations, no correlation was observed between MNP content and biological composition (lipid, water, or carbohydrate content), while a likely non-causal correlation was observed between MNP content and protein content, which may be simply attributed to the non-linear correlation between protein content and $V_c$. The conclusions that point to a possibly exceedingly large number of MNP particles currently in our brains call for urgent further investigation and the revision of the published data.
Supervariate gel transforms into various biominerals in salt solutions
Authors: Tang Xinxue , Wang Chong , Cheng Yuk-Tong , Shen Junda , Long Yunchen , Li Hongkun , Yan Jie , Ren Yang , Ma Xiao , Huang Yufeng , Zhengtao Xu , Jian Lv , Yang Li Yang 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We disclose that calcium-based biominerals, particularly hydroxyapatite (as in vertebrate bones and teeth), calcium carbonate (as in plankton and corals), and calcium pyrophosphate (as the cause for pseudogout), can be mineralized from the same precursor—“supervariate” gel, a stable and non-toxic amorphous gel easily prepared by mixing common water-soluble inorganic salt. When dispersed in a Na2CO3 or K2HPO4 solution, this multi-ionic, “supervariate” gel can selectively form the biomineral calcite (CaCO3) or hydroxyapatite, respectively. More remarkable reactions happen when the gel is dispersed in a CaCl2 solution under ambient conditions: dihydrate calcium pyrophosphate (Ca2P2O7·2H2O, CPP) was produced in the morphologically intact gel matrix. The resulting gel further transforms into hydroxyapatite upon drying at room temperature. Because of the ubiquity of pyrophosphate in organisms, such mild formation of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (contrasting the high temperatures needed in other non-enzymatic procedures, e.g., as in condensing phosphoric acid), and its transformation into hydroxyapatite, sheds light on 1) the role of pyrophosphate in life’s origin; 2) key biomineralization mechanisms in physiological processes. We also apply this “supervariate” gel for dental repair and osteogenesis.
Parental education, embarrassment, and sanitation facilities influence menstrual product choices among female nursing students in Bangladesh
Authors: Zaman Md. Nahid Uz , Sai Akira , Nyambe Sikopo , Yamauchi Taro 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Understanding the factors that shape menstrual product choices is crucial for improving menstrual health and hygiene practices among young women in low-resource settings. This study investigates the influence of parental education, embarrassment, and sanitation facilities on the choice between hygienic menstrual products, like single-use pads, and unhygienic options, such as old clothes. A structured questionnaire was used to interview 366 nursing students in Bangladesh, with an average age of 23.3 ± 4.3 years. Descriptive statistics, Pearson's chi-square test, and multivariable logistic regression were performed using JMP Pro 17. The major products were single-use pads (61%) and old clothes (32%). Participants' family was the primary source of menstrual information, and product choices were influenced by both fathers' (p &lt; 0.05) and mothers' (p &lt; 0.05) education level. Additionally, the participants reported negative perceptions of the sanitation facilities, citing issues such as a lack of privacy, cleanliness, and the availability of water and soap. Embarrassment about buying (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR): 2.86 [1.16–7.07]) and privacy of bathroom facilities (AOR: 2.92 [1.12–7.63]) increased the odds of old clothes, while fear of staining blood (AOR: 2.95 [1.53–5.68]) increased the odds of having single-use pads. Better menstrual health and hygiene practices require improved parental education, reduced embarrassment, and better sanitation facilities.
Environmental impacts of cement production in Ewekoro, Ogun State, southwestern Nigeria from 2005 to 2006 on surface water quality, vegetation, and workers' health
Authors: Agbede Orisunmibare T. , Adeofun Clement O. O. , Adetunji Michael T. , Taiwo Adewale Matthew , Arowolo Toyin A. 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT
The present study investigated the environmental impacts of cement production on surface water quality and vegetation in the vicinity of the industry. A 2-year study was conducted, covering both wet and dry seasons. Water samples were collected from the Akinbo River, where the cement industry discharges its liquid waste and effluents, and analysed for physical and chemical parameters using standard procedures. The vegetation around the factory was analysed for chlorophyll, plant density, basal areas, and heights of woody species. The study also assessed the health impacts of cement production on the factory employees and the residents living in the vicinity of the factory. The health assessment was based on hospital information obtained from two clinics in the villages near the factory. The water quality results revealed elevated concentrations of Ca and Fe. All the trees sampled around the study area had small basal areas and short heights. There was also a significant reduction in the chlorophyll contents of the vegetation. The health study showed a high incidence of upper-respiratory tract infections, cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, and dermatitis among factory workers. This study suggests a review of the existing dust-suppressing system put in place by the industry, to protect public health.
Synthesis and characterization of nickel cobaltite–supported film for hexavalent chromium photocatalytic reduction
Authors: Cárdenas Nataly , Alarcon Hugo , Schnabel Tobias , Mehling Simon 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is a prevalent and highly toxic pollutant, posing a serious threat to human health and ecosystems. This study addresses this issue by exploring the photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI) using hydrothermally synthesized nickel cobaltite (NiCo2O4) spinel–supported films. The research fills the gap for efficient visible light photocatalytic materials for Cr(VI) reduction, with the aim to synthesize, characterize, and assess NiCo2O4-supported films’ photocatalytic activity. Synthesis was achieved via a hydrothermal method on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) over FTO substrate. The films were characterized using several techniques and their photocatalytic activity was tested under UV-A and visible light, with Cr(VI) concentration monitored periodically up to 240 min. The NiCo2O4/TiO2 film demonstrated superior photoreduction performance under both UV and visible light radiation compared to TiO2 and NiCo2O4, achieving photoreduction of Cr(VI) by 76% under UV light with a rate constant of 5.79 × 10−3 min−1 and 60% under visible light with a rate constant of 4.74 × 10−3 min−1. In conclusion, hydrothermally synthesized NiCo2O4/TiO2 film shows promising photocatalytic performance for Cr(VI) reduction, marking a significant advancement in photocatalysis and water treatment technologies. Future research will focus on stability assessment, synthesis process optimization, and real-world water treatment application.
ORGANIC FARMING METHODS USED IN THE PRODUCTION OF ORGANIC VEGETABLE
Authors: Javier Joemar Dayham , Sison Maria Pia M 
Published: September 2024

Organic farming is a method of crop production through the natural process instead of using chemical-based pesticides and fertilizers. This study was conducted to identify the organic farming method used in producing organic vegetables in terms of the following: soil cultivation, animal husbandry, natural pesticides, biofertilizers, composting, crop rotation, cover crops, diversified crops, mulching, and seed treatments. Key Informant Interviews and surveys were used in data gathering, and descriptive statistics were used in data analysis. Results revealed that regardless of the farm size (small, medium, large), organic vegetable growers have practiced soil cultivation techniques such as ploughing, digging, furrowing, and hoeing. Other organic vegetable production practices, for instance, homemade organic pesticides, vermicomposting, crop rotation (legume/leafy), cover crops (grass), and mulching (dry leaves, plastic mulch) are commonly practiced among the three farm types. Moreover, only a few farms have practiced animal husbandry and biofertilizer application, while seed pelleting for seed treatment was obviously practiced by large farm types. Majority of the farms have diversified crops like lettuce, cabbage, eggplant, tomato, cauliflower, bitter gourd, cucumber, and herbs. It is noteworthy that success in organic vegetable production is greatly dependent on the timely implementation of effective cultural/production practices which enable growers to minimize, or totally avoid risks, thus to improve crop yield, farmers should focus on optimizing production/cultural practices.
Women's Alternative Media: Agents of Change on the Issue of Women's Roles in Indonesia
Authors: Amelia Diah , Amanah Siti , Muljono Pudji , Hapsari Dwi Retno 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTProgress in achieving gender equality and empowering women in Indonesia has been too slow and fragmented. The media can provide a voice and a platform for placing women's role issues on the development agenda. As in the education, health, economic, labor, and political sectors. However, in reality, there is a significant gender gap in mainstream media companies so that women are not represented optimally and steps to improve gender equality are limited. Alternative media is very possible to take a role in explaining issues of gender equality and women's empowerment. Because this type of media can connect various sectors, including trade unions, social movements, organizations and various elements of society. Researchers use the concept of gender and communication development, Standpoint theory, and alternative media. The approach used in this study is literature review research methodology. The results of this study explain that journalists in alternative media consider gender awareness and sensitivity important in themselves to be able to protect and defend women's interests. In fact, alternative media provide wide opportunities for journalists to raise strategic issues of equality and women's empowerment. Keywords: Alternative, Empowerment, Journalists, Media, Women Election
Facilitating Thought Progression to Reduce Depressive Symptoms: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yatziv Shai-Lee , Pedrelli Paola , Baror Shira , DeCaro Sydney Ann , Shachar Noam , Sofer Bar , Hull Sunday , Curtiss Joshua , Bar Moshe 
Published: September 2024

Background
The constant rise in the prevalence of major depressive disorder calls for new, effective, and accessible interventions that can rapidly and effectively reach a wide range of audiences. Recent developments in the digital health domain suggest that dedicated online platforms may potentially address this gap. Focusing on targeting ruminative thought, a major symptomatic hallmark of depression, in this study we hypothesized that delivering a digital health–based intervention designed to systematically facilitate thought progression would substantially alleviate depression.

Objective
The study aims to investigate the efficacy of a novel digital intervention on the reduction of depressive symptoms. This intervention was designed as an easy-to-use gamified app specifically aimed to facilitate thought progression through intense practicing of associative, semantically broad, fast, and creative thought patterns.

Methods
A randomized clinical trial was conducted, comparing changes in depression symptoms between participants who used the app in the intervention group (n=74) and waitlist control group (n=27) over the course of 8 weeks. All participants filled out a battery of clinical questionnaires to assess the severity of depression at baseline and 4 and 8 weeks after starting the study. These primarily included the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 as well as the Positive Affect Negative Affect Scale-Negative Affect Score, Ruminative Response Scale, and Symptoms of Depression Questionnaire. Additional questionnaires were implemented to assess anxiety, positive affect, anhedonia, and quality of life.

Results
The results indicate that across multiple clinical measurements, participants in the intervention group who played the gamified app showed greater and faster improvement in depressive symptoms compared with their waitlist control counterparts. The difference between the groups in MADRS improvement was –7.01 points (95% CI –10.72 to –3.29; P<.001; Cohen d=0.67). Furthermore, the difference in improvement between groups persisted up to 4 weeks posttrial (MADRS differences at week 12: F49,2=6.62; P=.003; ηp2=0.21). At the end of the trial, participants who played the app showed high interest in continuing using the app.

Conclusions
The results demonstrate that a gamified app designed to facilitate thought progression is associated with improvement in depressive symptoms. Given its innovative and accessibility features, this gamified method aiming to facilitate thought progression may successfully complement traditional treatments for depression in the future, providing a safe and impactful way to enhance the lives of individuals experiencing depression and anxiety.

Trial Registration
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05685758; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05685758
Exploring the Qualitative Experiences of Administering and Participating in Remote Research via Telephone Using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment-Blind: Cross-Sectional Study of Older Adults
Authors: Dumassais Shirley , Grewal Karl Singh , Aubin Gabrielle , O'Connell Megan , Phillips Natalie A , Wittich Walter 
Published: September 2024

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic caused a drastic shift in the practice of research and clinical services. It has been noted that cognition measured via in-person versus remote methods differ substantially, and it is possible that subjective and experiential differences exist between modalities.

Objective
The aim of the study is to explore the perceptions of both researchers and older adult participants on the experience of remotely conducted research using a cognitive screener.

Methods
We conducted a thematic analysis of the experience of engaging in remote research from both the participant (n=10) and researcher (n=4) perspectives. The research interaction was framed through teleadministration of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment-Blind (suitable for telephone administration) and administration of a subsequent semistructured debriefing interview. Participant perspectives were garnered during debriefing interviews, while researcher insights were collected via self-reported qualitative field notes completed following each research session.

Results
Data aggregated into themes of barriers and facilitators from the lenses of both participants and researchers. Participants noted facilitators including short instrument length, convenience, and presession contact; barriers included the length of the interaction, some tasks being more challenging on the phone, and the potential for participant dishonesty. Research assistants noted several facilitators: instrument length, rapport building, ability to prepare for and record sessions, and comfort with the protocol; barriers were items with too many response options, telephone issues (eg, response delays), and concerns about participant comprehension.

Conclusions
These results suggest remote telephone-delivered cognitive screening tools as a feasible and acceptable method of research inquiry. The findings provide a starting point for the inclusion of diverse populations in research to capture underrepresented groups whose input would immensely benefit our understanding of remotely delivered cognitive screening measures. Further, we offer materials (eg, checklists), which can be used in future investigations to promote future inclusive research and increase generalizability.
Evaluating a Virtual Reality Game to Enhance Teen Distracted Driving Education: Mixed Methods Pilot Study
Authors: Peterson Colleen M , Visclosky Timothy , Flannagan Carol A , Mahajan Prashant , Gabanyicz Andrew , Bouchard Jean-Jacques , Cervantes Vincent , Gribbin William , Hashikawa Andrew Nobuhide 
Published: September 2024

Background
Inexperienced adolescent drivers are particularly susceptible to engaging in distracted driving behaviors (DDBs) such as texting while driving (TWD). Traditional driver education approaches have shown limited success in reducing motor vehicle crashes among young drivers.

Objective
We tested an innovative approach to help address the critical issue of DDB among teenagers. We investigated the effectiveness of using a novel virtual reality (VR) game “Distracted Navigator” to educate novice teenage drivers about DDB.

Methods
The game consisted of maneuvering a spaceship around asteroids while engaging in simulated DDB (eg, inputting numbers into a keypad). A physician-facilitated discussion, based on the theory of planned behavior, linked gameplay to real-life driving. Teenagers were recruited for the in-person study and randomly assigned at the block level to intervention (VR gameplay or discussion) and control groups (discussion only), approximating a 2:1 ratio. Unblinded, bivariate statistical analyses (all 2-tailed t tests or chi-square tests) and regression analyses measured programming impact on TWD-related beliefs and intentions. Content analysis of focus group interviews identified thematic feedback on the programming.

Results
Of the 24 participants, 15 (63%) were male; their ages ranged from 14 to 17 (mean 15.8, SD 0.92) years, and all owned cell phones. Compared to the control group (n=7, 29%), the intervention group (n=17, 71%) was more likely to report that the programming had positively changed how they felt about texting and driving (?218=–8.3; P=.02). However, specific TWD attitudes and intentions were not different by treatment status. Irrespective of treatment, pre- and postintervention scores indicated reduced confidence in safely TWD (ie, perceived behavioral control; β=–.78; t46=–2.66; P=.01). Thematic analysis revealed the following: (1) the VR gameplay adeptly portrayed real-world consequences of texting and driving, (2) participants highly valued the interactive nature of the VR game and discussion, (3) both the VR game and facilitated discussion were deemed as integral and complementary components, and (4) feedback for improving the VR game and discussion.

Conclusions
Our findings show that the novel use of immersive VR experiences with interactive discussions can raise awareness of DDB consequences and is a promising method to enhance driving safety education. The widespread accessibility of VR technology allows for scalable integration into driver training programs, warranting a larger, prospective, randomized study.
A Chatbot-Based Version of the World Health Organization–Validated Self-Help Plus Intervention for Stress Management: Co-Design and Usability Testing
Authors: Fietta Valentina , Rizzi Silvia , De Luca Chiara , Gios Lorenzo , Pavesi Maria Chiara , Gabrielli Silvia , Monaro Merylin , Forti Stefano 
Published: September 2024

Background
Advancements in technology offer new opportunities to support vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women and women diagnosed with breast cancer, during physiologically and psychologically stressful periods.

Objective
This study aims to adapt and co-design the World Health Organization’s Self-Help Plus intervention into a mobile health intervention for these target groups.

Methods
On the basis of the Obesity-Related Behavioral Intervention Trials and Center for eHealth Research and Disease Management models, low-fidelity and high-fidelity prototypes were developed. Prototypes were evaluated by 13 domain experts from diverse sectors and 15 participants from the target groups to assess usability, attractiveness, and functionality through semantic differential scales, the User Version of the Mobile Application Rating Scale questionnaire, and semistructured interviews.

Results
Feedback from participants indicated positive perceptions of the mobile health intervention, highlighting its ease of use, appropriate language, and attractive multimedia content. Areas identified for improvement included enhancing user engagement through reminders, monitoring features, and increased personalization. The quality of the content and adherence to initial protocols were positively evaluated.

Conclusions
This research provides valuable insights for future studies aiming to enhance the usability, efficacy, and effectiveness of the app, suggesting the potential role of a chatbot-delivered Self-Help Plus intervention as a supportive tool for pregnant women and women with a breast cancer diagnosis.