bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Soil depth and physicochemical properties influence microbial dynamics in the rhizosphere of two Peruvian superfood trees, cherimoya and lucuma, as shown by PacBio-HiFi sequencing
Authors: Estrada Richard , Porras Tatiana , Pérez Wendy E. , Vilcara Edgardo A. , Cruz Juancarlos , Arbizu Carlos I. , Romero Yolanda 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Characterization of soil microbial community at different depths is essential to understand their impact on nutrient availability, soil fertility, plant growth and stress tolerance. We analyzed the microbial community at three depths (3 cm, 12 cm, and 30 cm) in thenative fruit trees Annona cherimola (cherimoya ) and Pouteria lucuma (lucuma), their fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. We used Pac Bio HiFi, along-read high-throughput sequencing to explore the composition, diversity and functions of bacterial communities in the rhizosphere of cherimoya and lucuma at different soil depths. Bacterial diversity, encompassing various phyla, families, and genera, changed with depth. Notable differences were observed in the alpha diversity indices, especially the Shannon index. Beta diversity also varied based on plant type and depth. In cherimoya soils, positive correlations with Total Organic Carbon (TOC) and Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) were found, but negative ones with certain cations. In lucuma soils, indices like the Shannon index showed negative correlations with several metals and specific soil properties. We proposed that differences between the plant rhizosphere environments may explain the variance in their microbial diversity . This is a solid starting point for understanding the impact of microorganisms in different soil depths and their influence on cro p growth and quality.
Estimation bias and serial dependence in speed perception
Authors: Wang Si-Yu , Zhang Xiao-Yan , Sun Qi 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Studies have found that feature estimates are systematically compressed towards the distribution center, showing a central tendency. Additionally, the estimate of current features is affected by the previously seen feature, showing serial dependence or adaptation effect. However, these all remain unclear in the speed estimation. To address this question, we asked participants to estimate the speed of moving Gabor patches. In Experiment 1, speeds were selected from three uniform distributions with different lower and upper boundaries (i.e., slow, moderate, and fast ranges). In Experiment 2, speeds were arranged in an increasing, uniform, or decreasing distribution. The boundaries of three distributions were the same. The results found that speed estimates were systematically compressed towards the center of the uniform distribution center, showing a central tendency, and its size increased with the range boundaries. However, in the decreasing and increasing distributions, aside from central tendency, the speed estimates were also showed a bias away from the heavy tail of the distributions. Moreover, there was an attractive serial dependence that was not affected by the speed range. In summary, the current study, along with previous studies that reveal a slow-speed bias, comprehensively reveals various estimation biases in speed perception.
Domestic wastewater generation, treatment, and agricultural reuse
Authors: Qadir Manzoor , Jones Edward , Drechsel Pay 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Safely managed wastewater is critical to water-related sustainable development. With a focus on the domestic wastewater component of SDG 6.3.1, this study reports that household activities worldwide generate 267.5 billion m3 yr− 1 of wastewater, of which 63% (168.8 billion m3 yr− 1) is collected in sewers and septic tanks, and 54.7% (146.3 billion m3 yr− 1) is treated. In comparison, 45.3% (121.2 billion m3) is released to the environment in untreated form, either uncollected (98.7 billion m3 yr− 1) or collected but untreated (22.5 billion m3 yr− 1). The monitoring of and progress on safely managed wastewater remain strongly uneven between the Global North and Global South and between geographic regions and income groups. While there is clear progress in the agricultural reuse of treated wastewater, untreated water reuse requires more attention. Considerable challenges remain because of terminology, informal irrigation, and the usefulness of reporting reuse volumes or areas for health-based targets.
Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) detects body resistance increase in dogs undergoing blood donation
Authors: Nisini Noemi , Corda Andrea , Birettoni Francesco , Miglio Arianna , Antognoni Maria Teresa 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The use of raw parameters of bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and derived phase angle (PhA) has emerged as an alternative to conventional predictive BIA for body fluid volumes and body composition estimation in human patients, offering an approach independent of predictive equations. Classic predictive equation-based BIA remains unsuitable for veterinary clinical practice due to the high morphological variability within the canine species. This study aimed to validate the feasibility of BIA in dogs and assess its utility in detecting changes in body fluid volumes, particularly in the context of blood donation. Sixty healthy blood donor dogs and ten controls were longitudinally assessed using BIA raw parameters with a portable analyzer at a 50 kHz frequency. Measurements were performed before and after blood donation and at 20 minutes interval in controls. Significant increases in raw bioelectrical parameters were observed after blood donation in the donor group, while differences were not statistically significant in controls. Hematocrit values did not significantly differ in both groups between the two time points. These findings suggest the feasibility of using BIA to detect changes in body fluid volumes in dogs undergoing blood donation, highlighting its potential application in veterinary medicine. Further research should explore the applicability of BIA in spontaneous pathological conditions involving fluid loss or retention and investigate the potential utility of PhA as a prognostic or monitoring tool in veterinary clinical practice. This study provides valuable insights into the use of BIA in canine medicine, paving the way for enhanced diagnostic and monitoring strategies in clinical practice.
Shining Light on Environmental Remediation: A type-II heterojunction MnFe2O4/rGO Nanocomposites for Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of organic dyes and Bisphenol A
Authors: Mahapatra Priyambada , Mohanty Chirasmayee , Behura Reshma , Das Nigamananda 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In this study, we addressed the pressing issue of persistent organic pollutants in industrial wastewater by designing and fabricating a magnetically separable MnFe2O4/rGO heterostructure catalyst which uses on the efficient mineralization of bisphenol A (BPA) and dyes such as alizarin red S (anionic) and malachite green (cationic), which are known for their resistance to biodegradation and carcinogenic properties. Through comprehensive structural and magnetic property analyses using techniques such as XRD, XPS, SEM, TEM/HRTEM, GC-MS, and optical property measurements, the formation of the MnFe2O4/rGO heterostructure (MnFe2O4/rGO-10) with promising catalytic activity was confirmed. Moreover, we assess the stability and recyclability of the catalyst through XRD and VSM studies, demonstrating its consistent performance over multiple uses. Remarkably, the MnFe2O4/rGO-10 catalyst exhibits 100% efficiency in the mineralization of BPA and both dyes under visible light illumination within 60 min. The cost-effectiveness and stability of this catalyst underscore its potential for practical application in wastewater treatment, offering a viable solution to the persistent challenge of removing stubborn organic contaminants.
Urine dipstick test use in Dutch nursing homes: a mixed-methods study to inform strategies for improved guideline-accordance
Authors: Paap Kelly C. , Rutten Jeanine J.J.S. , Loon Anouk M. van , Hertogh Cees M.P.M. , Smalbrugge Martin , Buul Laura W. van 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: Current guidelines stated that urinalysis should no longer be used to confirm a urinary tract infection (UTI) diagnosis in nursing home (NH) residents, urine dipstick tests are still frequently used by nursing staff in response to a broad array of – often non-UTI related – S&S. This study gain insight into factors associated with guideline non-accordant urine dipstick test use in NHs, and explore the current processes and perceptions regarding urine dipstick test use among nursing staff.
Methods: Mixed-methods study in Dutch NHs.
Participants: NH residents with a suspected UTI and nursing staff members.
Measurements: In an existing dataset of 294 cases of suspected UTI, we compared patient characteristics between guideline-accordant and non-accordant urine dipstick test use. We additionally explored processes and perceptions regarding urine dipstick test use, using data from previously conducted interviews with 9 nursing staff members complemented with 2 newly conducted focus groups with 14 nursing staff members.
Results: A urine dipstick test was performed in 13.7% of 51 residents with an indwelling urinary catheter. A urine dipstick test was performed in 61.3% of 243 suspected cases without an indwelling catheter, 45% of which was not guideline-accordant. Renal or urinary tract abnormalities [OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.09─0.96] and mental status change other than delirium (OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.15─0.77) were associated with more guideline non-accordant dipstick use. Having cloudy urine, urine color change and/or urine odor change (OR 2.47, 95% CI 1.06─5.73) was associated with more guideline-accordant urine dipstick test use. The qualitative findings provided in-depth insight into current work processes regarding the urine dipstick test, knowledge and perceptions, and points for improvement.
Conclusions: Guideline non-accordant urine dipstick test use is common in NHs. Improved knowledge and skills of nursing staff is needed, as well as clear work processes. As the urine dipstick test is very much embedded in everyday practice, the change process requires sufficient time, clear and repeated communication, and involvement of nursing staff. Throughout the change process, the perceptions of nursing staff identified in this study are important to consider and address.
Exploring Ghanaian fathers’ involvement in parenting children with neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Swarray-Deen Rima Maya , Oti-Boadi Mabel , Andoh-Arthur Johnny , Omari Emmanuel Boakye 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Research on neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) in Ghana has predominantly focused on mothers, neglecting the role of fathers. Traditional parenting norms assign caregiving to mothers, with fathers primarily providing financial support. This disparity is magnified when raising a child with NDDs, as mothers often handle specialized care.
Methods: A qualitative approach was adopted to study fifteen fathers in Accra, Ghana using the purposive and snowball sampling. A Semi-structured interview guide was used to interview fathers about their experiences and involvement in caring for their children with NDDs.
Results: Using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis, four themes were revealed including initial diagnosis, challenges, coping strategies, and areas for improvement. Fathers expressed shock and confusion, discussing difficulties, and coping methods like religious reliance and seeking social support.
Conclusion: The findings underscore the need for tailored intervention programs considering fathers' experiences in caring for children with NDDs, informing policymakers and therapeutic interventions for this demographic.
Association of Modifiable Risk Factors and Infectious Diseases Among Individuals with Hypertension: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Hu Niandan , Ai Bo , Wang Yaohuai , Ren Yongdong , Chen Hairui , Chen Zhen , Li Wenqiang 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
A comprehensive assessment of combined modifiable risk factors in relation to infectious diseases among individuals with hypertension is lacking, and the potential mechanisms of these associations remain unclear. To investigate the prospective associations of a combination of lifestyle behaviors and cardiometabolic factors with the risk of infectious diseases among individuals with hypertension and to estimate whether and to what extent blood biomarkers mediate these associations.
Methods
This cohort study included 147,188 participants with hypertension and complete data on modifiable risk factors from the UK Biobank. Health score was constructed from eight modifiable risk factors, including four lifestyle behaviors (diet, physical activity, nicotine exposure, and sleep duration) and four cardiometabolic factors (body mass index, blood lipids, blood glucose, and blood pressure). Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the health score and infectious diseases. The mediation analysis was performed to assess the potential intermediation effects of blood biomarkers.
Results
Over a median follow-up of 12.5 years, 27,398 participants with infectious diseases were documented, with 960 respiratory infectious diseases and 7940 digestive infectious diseases. After adjusting for potential confounders, the HR (95% CI) for the highest versus the lowest quartile of health score was 0.64 (0.62, 0.66) for infectious diseases, 0.72 (0.60, 0.86) for respiratory infectious diseases, and 0.66 (0.62, 0.71) for digestive infectious diseases. Stratified factors including duration of hypertension did not modify the associations between the health score and infectious diseases. In addition, biomarkers including inflammation and renal function collectively explained 47.6%-87.7% of the associations between the combined lifestyle factors and infectious disease risk among individuals with hypertension.
Conclusions and relevance
: Ideal management of combined modifiable risk factors was associated with lower risks of infectious diseases and might produce profound changes in blood biomarkers among individuals with hypertension. Additionally, specific biomarkers appeared to serve as an intermediate between combined lifestyle factors and infectious diseases. These insights highlighted the important role of a combination of healthy lifestyle and favorable cardiometabolic status in reducing disease burden and facilitated the understanding of biological mechanisms underlying modifiable risk factors with infectious diseases.
Identifying New Therapeutic Targets in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Piermattei Alessia , De Luca Roberto , Peissert Frederik , Plüss Louis , Puca Emanuele , D’Alessandris Nicoletta , Travaglino Antonio , Sillano Francesca , Pasciuto Tina , Giannarelli Diana , Buttarelli Marianna , Zannoni Gian Franco , Fagotti Anna , Neri Dario , Scambia Giovanni , Nero Camilla 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Ovarian cancer is a significant health concern, necessitating the identification of potential diagnostic markers and novel therapeutic targets. This study presents, to the best of our knowledge, the first comparative immunohistochemical analysis of five tumor markers, namely the extra-domains A and B of fibronectin, fibroblast activation protein, carcinoembryonic antigen, and MUC16 in human epithelial ovarian cancer tissue samples.
Methods
Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded human ovarian tissue sections were stained using previously validated antibodies to assess the percentage and intensity of marker expressions.
Results
Our results indicate a similar stromal pattern of expression for fibroblast activation protein, extra-domains A, and extra-domains B, with extra-domains A exhibiting the most intense staining. MUC16 was abundantly expressed on tumor cells of high-grade serous carcinoma samples, while carcinoembryonic antigen was not detected in this indication. Subsequent staining revealed that carcinoembryonic antigen was highly expressed on mucinous ovarian cancer specimens. With respect to clinical features, MUC16 and extra-domains A were found to be highly expressed in the most challenging scenarios namely platinum-resistant (100% and 50% respectively) and BRCA WT (75% and 45% respectively) patients.
Conclusions
The findings of this study highlight that MUC16, extra-domains B, and extra-domains A are attractive targets for the treatment of serous ovarian carcinoma, while carcinoembryonic antigen could be exploited for mucinous ovarian cancer. Clinical investigations are warranted to validate the potential of antibody-based therapies targeting these antigens in the context of ovarian cancer.
The Impact of Rural Residency on Time to Lung Cancer Treatment in West Virginia and Patient Survival
Authors: Nduaguba Sabina , Lumudae Anna , Stout Nicole 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Purpose: To examine the association of rurality with timely receipt of lung cancer treatment and survival in West Virginia (WV).
Methods: A retrospective study was conducted using 1993-2021 WV Cancer Registry data to identify persons diagnosed with NSCLC who received treatment. Participants were classified by rurality (rural vs non-rural), and time to treatment from diagnosis was dichotomized as early treatment (<35 days) or delayed treatment (≥35 days). Descriptive statistics and survival analysis (with univariate and multivariate Cox regression were used to address study objectives.
Results: Of 10,463 participants, 678 (6.5%) were rural residents. The majority were male (58.1%), married or partnered (59.9%), and non-Hispanic white (97.5%). 61% received early treatment. 45%, 38%, and 16% received systemic therapy, surgery, and radiation, respectively. There were significantly more non-Hispanic white (99.6% vs 97.3%) patients residing in rural areas compared to non-rural areas, and fewer rural residents were diagnosed at stages 1 (29.4% vs 34.3%) or 2 (10.0% vs 11.6%).
Rurality was not associated with time to treatment but was associated with 9% increase in hazard of death (HR=1.09, 95% CI=1.00-1.18). Significant covariates associated with increasing hazard of treatment included being male (HR=1.08, 95% CI=1.04-1.13) and cancer stage (HR range=1.19-2.38, while being Black and receiving surgery (0.43, 0.30-0.62), radiation (0.48, 0.33-0.68), or systemic therapy (0.33,0.23-0.47) (compared to other treatment) were each associated with reduced hazard of treatment.
Conclusion: In WV, rurality affects lung cancer outcomes but not time to treatment increasing risk of death for NSCLC patients by 9%.
Oral Bacillus subtilis Spores-based Vaccine for Mass Vaccination against Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome
Authors: Min Huitae , Cho Hye-Sim , Lee Hoe-Suk , Park Young-Tae , Lee Hujang , Park Hyun-Sik 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) poses a significant challenge in the global swine industry, leading to substantial economic losses and reproductive and respiratory complications. The causative agent, PRRS virus (PRRSV), with its high mutation rate, complicates the development of universally effective vaccines. Furthermore, current PRRS vaccines are limited by high costs and complex administration methods. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to develop an innovative Bacillus subtilis spore-based oral vaccine targeting PRRS. Their oral administration was evaluated in mice and pigs, and blood, saliva, feces, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples were collected for further analyses. Our vaccine induced IgG and IgA immune responses in both models, with swine demonstrating a considerable increase in specific antibody and cytokine levels. These results indicate a potent potential for more effective and economically viable control of PRRS in commercial pig farming. The ease of administration and cost-effectiveness of the vaccine also offer a feasible option for widespread application. Our results suggest a new direction in veterinary vaccine development, underscoring the potential of Bacillus subtilis spores in creating effective vaccines for large-scale, real-world applications in animal health management.
Inferring Trends and Change Attribution Using Regression-Based Unimpaired Runoff to San Francisco Estuary, 1872-2022
Authors: Lai Yuchuan , Hutton Paul H. , Roy Sujoy B. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This work utilized recently extended time series of “unimpaired” or “virgin” runoff from ten Sierra Nevada watersheds upstream of California’s San Francisco Estuary to study long-term hydrologic changes on annual and seasonal time scales. The runoff time series, spanning 1872–2022, were reconstructed using a multivariate regression approach that was informed with monthly temperature and precipitation data. Although the annual runoff series were found to be highly variable and were characterized by multi-year wet and dry periods, they were nevertheless found to be stationary over the full study period. This work also showed that April to July runoff, where snowmelt is a large component, exhibited a statistically significant decrease in most watersheds when reported as a fraction of total annual runoff. A linear trend method revealed statistically significant decreases in this metric in nine watersheds over the period of record; in six watersheds, a piecewise linear trend approach identified significant mid-20th century breakpoints signifying stationary conditions followed by substantial declining trends. The last decade of record showed the highest temperatures and greatest temperature-related declines in this metric. A change attribution analysis suggests that not only are warming temperatures driving runoff timing changes, but they are also impacting annual runoff volumes. This work confirms previous research indicating earlier runoff from snow-fed watersheds in western North America (including California’s Sierra Nevada Mountain range) in recent decades; it also highlights the stationarity in this quantity from the late 19th century to the middle of the 20th century before significant warming trends were apparent.
Expression profile of miR-214, miR-204, miR-25, miR-15a, IL-33, and plasma level of Malondialdehyde might serve as potential biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Almawashee Haydar Sahib , Khalaj-Kondori Mohammad , Feizi Mohammad Ali Hoseinpour , Safaralizadeh Reza 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a late-of-onset neurodegenerative disease that affects elder people. Despite immense research on deciphering the pathophysiology of AD, the precise etiology of AD remains still elusive. Deregulations of miRNAs play essential roles in AD pathogenesis and as a result, they might be potential biomarkers for AD development and diagnosis. This study was aimed to assess the expression of miR-214, miR-204, miR-15a, miR-25, and investigate their correlations with the expression of IL-33, plasma level of Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score of the AD patients. Blood samples were obtained from125 participants including 75 AD patients and 50 healthy controls. Plasma and Blood leukocytes were isolated and used for subsequent analysis. Results showed that the plasma level of MDA was significantly higher in the AD patients. Besides, IL-33, miR-15a and miR-25 were downregulated in the patients’ group but miR-214 and miR-204 expressions were upregulated. Plasma MDA level showed a negative correlation with the MMSE and a positive correlation with the IL-33 expression. We also observed a statistically meaningful negative correlation between miR-15a and IL-33 expressions. Correlations between the studied miRNAs and MDA were all non-significant. Furthermore, none of the miRNAs or IL-33 expressions were correlated with the MMSE scores. ROC curve analysis revealed that expressions of the studied miRNAs, IL-33, and the plasma level of MDA could differentiate AD patients from healthy controls. In conclusion, our results showed that expressions of miR-214, miR-204, miR-25, miR-15a, IL33, and plasma level of MDA might be considered as potential biomarkers for AD development and diagnosis.