Significant Interaction Effect Research Articles

Examining the Effects of Discrete Trials, Mass Trials, and Naturalistic Environment Training on Autistic Individuals Using Repeated Measures.

Behavioral interventions based on applied behavior analysis (ABA) form current evidence-based practices in treating autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Research is scarce relative to the broad effects of intensive repetitive, discrete trial training, and mass trials combined with a naturalistic environment as measured by overall general target behaviors.The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a mixed behavioral model consisting of discrete trial training and mass trial interventions in the naturalistic environment, using a repeated measures design with a retrospective snapshot cohort of 93 individuals with autism. A repeated measures analysis tracked 89 autistic children with four adultautistic individuals over seven time points during a three-month snapshot period from March 19, 2023, to June 11, 2023. This study determined the effectiveness of applied behavior analysis (ABA) interventions combining discrete trial training, mass trials, and naturalistic environment training on mastered broad target behaviors in autistic individuals using a mixed (between and within) ANOVAstatistical design. Mixed (between and within) ANOVAindicated overall statistical significance, F (6,674)=45.447, p<0.001, partial eta squared=0.365across time. These results indicated a large effect size. Multiple comparisons showed statistical significance (p<0.001) on all 21 multiple comparisons between timepoints. There was also a significant interaction effect with time× age category,F (24,474)=2.961, p<0.001, partial eta squared=0.130. These results alsoindicated a large effect size. Autistic individuals who received applied behavior analysis combining discrete trial training, mass trials, and naturalistic environment training intervention demonstrated statistically significant improvement in target behaviors over the three-month snapshot period, the most prominent being in the 13-16 yearsage category.

Amino acid distribution in blood following high-intensity interval exercise: a preliminary study.

This study investigated the effect of high-intensity interval exercise on total and individual amino acid concentrations in red blood cells (RBCs) and plasma. Seven males (31 ± 13yr) provided venous blood samples at rest, immediately and 15min and 30min following an 8-min high-intensity exercise bout. The exercise bout was 16 × 15s cycle efforts at 0.4N/kg of body mass and 90rpm, interspersed with 15s passive recovery. Total and individual amino acid concentrations of RBC and plasma and blood cell parameters were analysed. No significant differences for total amino acid concentrations between RBC and plasma were found. Individual amino acid analyses showed significant interaction effects for alanine and α-aminoadipic acid (P < 0.05), with plasma alanine significantly increased from baseline across the recovery period (P < 0.001). Blood fraction (group) effects showed greater concentrations of glycine, serine, asparagine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, α-aminoadipic acid and ornithine in RBC, while greater concentrations of alanine, α-aminobutyric acid, valine, leucine, isoleucine, threonine, proline, phenylalanine, glutamine, tryptophan and cystine were found in plasma (P < 0.05). Comparable levels of histidine, lysine and tyrosine were observed between blood fractions. Significant differences in the variation of total amino acids in RBC were reported with higher variance at rest compared to following exercise (P = 0.01). Haemoglobin, pack cell volume and white blood cell count significantly increased immediately following exercise (P < 0.05) but returned to baseline after 15min recovery. These results support the notion of individualised amino acid transportation roles for RBC and plasma during exercise.

Effects of Cognitive Inhibition Preceding Voluntary Step Responses to Visual Stimuli in Young and Older Adults.

Age-related changes in executive functions, especially inhibitory control, correlate to decreased balance control and increased fall risk. However, only a few studies focused on the performance of tasks integrating balance and inhibitory control. This study aims to determine the effects of cognitive inhibition preceding the initiation of voluntary steps in young and older adults. Performance of 3 stepping tasks (a Simon, Flanker, and a combined Simon-Flanker task [SFT]) were analyzed in 23 young adults and 43 older adults. Each task included congruent and incongruent trials in different step directions. Analyses focused on temporal aspects of step responses as identified by changes in Center of Pressure (CoP) and foot position. A 3-way repeated-measures ANOVA was used to evaluate "inhibition," "age," and "task" effects. With large effect sizes, "inhibition" as well as "age" resulted in longer durations of an initial preparatory phase as well as the step response phase. The SFT showed the largest "task" effects. Duration of CoP movement had the largest impact on total step execution in older adults. A significant interaction effect of "age*inhibition" was found on the duration of CoP movement, but not on CoP onset. Overall, our results demonstrate that cognitive inhibition has more impact in older adults, the longer duration of CoP movements in older adults may reflect an ineffective step preparation. Our examination of the duration of subsequent phases which comprise perceptual processing and conflict resolution, response initiation, and step execution sheds light on how cognitive inhibition affects voluntary stepping behavior in young and older adults.

Differential effects of cholesterol levels on cognition according to body mass index in Parkinson’s disease

BackgroundCholesterol is an essential component of the neuronal cell membrane and is crucial for neuronal function; however, the role of cholesterol levels in Parkinson’s disease (PD) is debatable. This study investigated the complex relationship between total cholesterol (TC) levels, body mass index (BMI), and cognition in patients with PD.MethodsThis study included 321 drug-naïve patients with PD who underwent dopamine transporter (DAT) imaging and baseline neuropsychological tests. Multivariate linear regression and Cox regression models were used to investigate the effect of TC levels on the composite score of each cognitive domain and dementia conversion after adjusting for covariates, respectively. Interaction analyses were performed to examine the interaction effect between TC levels and BMI on baseline cognition and dementia conversion.ResultsTC levels and cognition showed no significant relationship after adjusting for potential confounders. A significant interaction effect between TC levels and BMI was observed in frontal/executive function and dementia conversion. Further analyses showed that TC levels were positively associated with frontal/executive function in the under-/normal weight group (β = 0.205, p = 0.013), whereas a negative relationship existed between TC levels and frontal/executive function in the obese group (β = − 0.213, p = 0.017). Cox regression analyses also showed the differential effects of TC levels on dementia conversion according to BMI (under-/normal weight group: hazard ratio [HR] = 0.550, p = 0.013; obese group: HR = 2.085, p = 0.014).ConclusionsThis study suggests a cross-over interaction between TC levels and BMI on cognitive symptoms in PD.

Categorization of Sugar Beet Varieties for Water Saving in Sandy Soils Using Factor Analysis Scores

AbstractWater shortage in dry and semi-arid regions is a major agricultural challenge. This study investigated the performance of ten imported monogerm sugar beet varieties under continuous deficiency irrigation using a drip system on a private farm in the Wadi El-Natrun region, El-Beheira Governorate, Egypt, during two growing seasons, 2021/2022 and 2022/2023. The study utilized a novel method, a crossbar graph, to effectively visualize statistical data. The results showed significant interaction effects between sugar beet varieties and water deficit levels for all traits, indicating varying responses of the varieties to different levels of drought stress (75% and 55%). Drought stress levels (75% and 55%) had an adverse effect on the root yield of the ten varieties of sugar beet that were investigated. The exploratory factor analysis was applied to investigate and describe the relationship between ten different varieties of sugar beet and water stress treatments. Varieties Symbol, Stikhiyn, Volua, and Klara were characterized as moderate and tolerant with high performance, and they received the highest score in factor analysis. These varieties are recommended for cultivation under moderate and severe stress conditions. Factor analysis scores can be used as selection criteria for sugar beet varieties.

Dyslipidemia and Efficacy of Remote Ischemic Conditioning in Acute Moderate Ischemic Stroke: A Post Hoc Analysis of the RICAMIS Study.

Ischemic conditioning-induced cardioprotection was attenuated by dyslipidemia in some animal and clinical studies, which is not investigated in patients with stroke. We conducted a post hoc analysis of the RICAMIS (Remote Ischemic Conditioning for Acute Moderate Ischemic Stroke) trial to investigate the association of dyslipidemia on admission with the efficacy of remote ischemic conditioning (RIC). In this analysis, eligible patients were divided into dyslipidemia and normal-lipid groups according to the levels of 4 blood lipid profiles (total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol), which were further subdivided into RIC and control subgroups. We analyzed the differences in functional outcome between RIC and control subgroups in dyslipidemia and normal-lipid patients, respectively, and the interaction effects of RIC treatment with blood lipid levels were evaluated. Among 1776 patients from intention-to-treat analysis, 1419 patients with data of blood lipid profiles were included in the final analysis. A significantly higher proportion of modified Rankin Scale score 0 to 1 was identified in the RIC versus control subgroup across the normal-total cholesterol group (69.9% versus 63.5%; P=0.04), normal-triglycerides group (68.1% versus 60.5%; P=0.016), high-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol group (65.7% versus 57.7%; P=0.025), and normal-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol group (68.3% versus 60.5%; P=0.005). Similar statistical trends were found in the high-total cholesterol group (62.8% versus 55.5%; P=0.059), high-triglycerides group (67.8% versus 60.1%; P=0.099), normal-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol group (69.8% versus 63.7%; P=0.105), but no statistical significance was found in the low-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol group (63.4% versus 61%; P=0.705). Furthermore, no significant interaction effect of RIC intervention by blood lipid profiles was found. Similar results were obtained for lipids as continuous variables. Blood lipids on admission was not associated with the neuroprotective effect of RIC.

A web-based psychological support program for caregivers of children with rare chronic diseases: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundApproximately 50% of rare diseases have symptom onset during childhood. A high level of nursing care and an often uncertain prognosis put caregivers of the affected children at high risk for psychological distress. At the same time, their caregivers have limited access to appropriate psychological care. The aim of this study was to evaluate a web-based psychological support program for caregivers of children with chronic rare diseases (WEP-CARE).MethodsGerman-speaking parents (recruited between May 2016 and March 2018) caring for children aged 0–25 years with a rare disease showing clinically relevant anxiety symptoms, were assigned to either the WEP-CARE (n = 38) or treatment as usual (n = 36) condition within a randomized controlled trial. The primary outcome measure was parental anxiety, assessed with the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire (GAD-7). Secondary outcomes were fear of disease progression, depression, coping, quality of life and user satisfaction. The group differences were tested through repeated-measures analyses of variance. The WEP-CARE group was additionally followed up three months after the treatment.ResultsA significant time-group interaction was found for anxiety (F (1,35) = 6.13, p = .016), fear of disease progression (F (1,331) = 18.23, p < .001), depression (F (1,74) = 10.79, p = .002) and coping (F (1,233) = 7.02, p = .010), suggesting superiority of the WEP-CARE group. Sustainability of the treatment gains regarding anxiety, fear of disease progression and coping was confirmed at the 6-month follow-up assessment (p < .01). A significant interaction effect could not be found for quality of life (F(1,2) = 0.016; p = .899). Both participating parents and therapists were satisfied with WEP-CARE.ConclusionsOur results underline the efficacy and feasibility of WEP-CARE for parents of children with various rare diseases.

Personality typologies of smokers and excessive drinkers: a cross-sectional survey of respondents in the BBC Lab UK Study

Background Several personality traits have been linked to addictive behaviours, including smoking and excessive drinking. We hypothesised that the combination of low conscientiousness, high extraversion and high neuroticism would be synergistically associated with smoking, excessive drinking and both behaviours combined. Methods Respondents aged 16+ years (N=363,454) were surveyed between 2009-2013 as part of the BBC Lab UK Study, with no restrictions on geographical location. Respondents provided information about sociodemographic characteristics, personality traits, and smoking and alcohol consumption. A series of multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted. Results No significant three-way but significant two-way interactive effects were observed. The association of high extraversion with smoking was more pronounced in those with high (vs. low) conscientiousness (ORadj=1.51, 95% CI=1.46, 1.56, p&lt;.001; ORadj=1.38, 95% CI=1.35, 1.42, p&lt;.001). The association of high extraversion with excessive drinking was more pronounced in those with low (vs. high) conscientiousness (ORadj=1.70, 95% CI=1.67, 1.74, p&lt;.001; ORadj=1.60, 95% CI=1.56, 1.63, p&lt;.001). The association of high extraversion with both behaviours combined was more pronounced in those with high (vs. low) conscientiousness (ORadj=1.74, 95% CI=1.65, 1.83, p&lt;.001; ORadj=1.62, 95% CI= 1.56, 1.68, p&lt;.001). Results remained largely robust in sensitivity analyses. Conclusions In a large international survey, we identified two-way ‘personality typologies’ that are associated with greater odds of smoking, excessive drinking and both behaviours combined. The results may be useful for the tailoring of behaviour change interventions to at-risk individuals.

CTBS over primary motor cortex increased contralateral corticomuscular coupling and interhemispheric functional connection

Objective. Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that changes the activity of the cerebral cortex. Contralesional continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) has been proposed and verified beneficial to stroke motor recovery. However, the underlying mechanism is still unclear. Approach. 20 healthy right-handed subjects were recruited in this study, receiving real-cTBS over their left primary motor cortex or sham-cTBS. We designed the finger tapping task (FTT) before and after stimulation and recorded the accuracy and reaction time (RT) of the task. The electroencephalogram and surface electromyogram signals were recorded during the left finger pinching task (FPT) before and after stimulation. We calculated cortico-muscular coherence (CMC) in the contralateral hemisphere and cortico-cortical coherence (CCC) in the bilateral hemisphere. The two-way repeated measures analysis of variance was used to analyze the effect of cTBS. Main results. In the FTT, there was a significant main effect of ‘time’ on RT (F(1, 38) = 24.739, p < 0.001). In the FPT, the results showed that there was a significant interaction effect on the CMC peak and area in the beta band (peak: F(1, 38) = 8.562, p = 0.006; area: F(1, 38) = 5.273, p = 0.027), on the CCC peak in the alpha band (F(1, 38) = 4.815, p = 0.034) and area in the beta band (F(1, 38) = 4.822, p= 0.034). The post hoc tests showed that the CMC peak (W = 20, p = 0.002), the CMC area (W = 13, p = 0.003) and the CCC peak (t = −2.696, p = 0.014) increased significantly after real-cTBS. However, there was no significant decrease or increase after sham-cTBS. Significance. Our study found that cTBS can improve CMC of contralateral hemisphere and CCC of bilateral hemisphere, indicating that cTBS can strengthen cortico-muscular and cortico-cortical coupling.

Effect of acupressure on pain intensity and physiological indices in patients undergoing extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy: a randomized double-blind sham-controlled clinical trial

BackgroundDespite the widespread use of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) as a treatment for kidney stones, it is essential to apply methods to control pain and improve patient comfort during this procedure. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of acupressure at the Qiu point on pain intensity and physiological indices in patients undergoing ESWL.MethodsThis randomized, sham-controlled clinical trial was conducted at the Shahid Beheshti Educational-medical Center in Hamadan City (western Iran) from May to August 2023. Seventy-four eligible patients were split into intervention (n = 37) and sham (n = 37) groups. Ten minutes before lithotripsy, the intervention group received acupressure at the Qiu point, while the sham group received touch at a neutral point. The primary outcomes were pain intensity measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and physiological indices such as blood pressure and heart rate at baseline, 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 min after the intervention. The secondary outcomes included lithotripsy success and satisfaction with acupressure application.ResultsThe analysis of 70 patients showed no significant differences in the demographic and clinical information of the patients across the two groups before the study (P > 0.05). Generalized estimating equations revealed that the interaction effects of time and group in pain and heart rate were significant at 30 and 40 min (P < 0.05). The results of this analysis for systolic blood pressure revealed a significant interaction at 30 min (P = 0.035). However, no significant interaction effects were found for diastolic blood pressure changes (P > 0.05).ConclusionsAcupressure at the Qiu point positively impacts pain in patients undergoing ESWL treatment and increases their satisfaction. However, these results for physiological indices require further studies. Thus, acupressure can be considered a simple, easy, and effective option for pain management in patients during this procedure.Trial registration[https://en.irct.ir/trial/69117], identifier [IRCT20190524043687N4].

Complex interplay of oral health, muscle and bone metabolism, and frailty in older individuals.

To investigate molecular and clinical background of associations among oral health, muscle and bone metabolism, and frailty incidence in patients with fall and fracture history. In total, 88 elderly participants (mean age 71.9 ± 5.8years) with the distal radius fractures were included. Participants were divided into three groups based on an Oral Health Assessment Tool score. Fried criteria and Mini-nutritional assessments were adopted to diagnose frailty and malnutrition, respectively. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for serum levels of bone turnover markers, proteins, insulin-like growth factor-1, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and inflammatory cytokines. The mRNA levels of markers of inflammation, muscle synthesis and wasting, and muscle homeostasis regulator in the pronator quadratus muscle were analyzed. Patients with deteriorated oral health demonstrated a higher prevalence of frailty and malnutrition. Significantly lower serum levels of total protein and higher concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were detected in patients with poor oral health. Significant interaction effects between oral health and frailty level in gait speed, serum TNF-α, IL-1β, and total protein levels were exhibited. Significantly different mRNA expression levels in the pronator quadratus muscle of TNF-α, IL-1β, NF kB, MYOG, and FOXO1 following the oral health were detected. This study highlights relationship between oral health, nutritional uptake, systemic inflammation, and their combined impact on muscle and bone metabolism, ultimately affecting frailty development in the aging populations. A comprehensive understanding of mutual interactions among oral health, nutrition, and inflammation is essential for managing frailty.

Feasibility and acceptability of a culturally adapted psychological first aid training intervention (Preparing Me) to support the mental health and well-being of front-line healthcare workers in China: a feasibility randomized controlled trial

ABSTRACT Background: Psychological first aid (PFA) training helps to prepare healthcare workers (HCWs) to manage trauma and stress during healthcare emergencies, yet evidence regarding its effectiveness and implementation is lacking. Method: A two-arm feasibility randomized controlled trial design was conducted in a Chinese tertiary hospital. Participants were randomly allocated to receive either a culturally adapted PFA training (the intervention arm) or psychoeducation (the control arm). Feasibility indicators and selected outcomes were collected. Results: In total, 215 workers who expressed an interest in participating in the trial were screened for eligibility, resulting in 96 eligible participants being randomly allocated to the intervention arm (n = 48) and control arm (n = 48). There was a higher retention rate for the face-to-face PFA training session than for the four online group PFA sessions. Participants rated the PFA training as very helpful (86%), with a satisfaction rate of 74.25%, and 47% reported being able to apply their PFA skills in responding to public health emergencies or providing front-line clinical care. Positive outcome changes were observed in PFA knowledge, skills, attitudes, resilience, self-efficacy, compassion satisfaction, and post-traumatic growth. Their scores on depression, anxiety, stress, and burnout measures all declined. Most of these changes were sustained over 3 months (p < .05). Repeated measures analysis of variance found statistically significant interaction effects on depression (F 2,232 = 2.874, p = .046, η p 2 = .031) and burnout (F 2,211 = 3.729, p = .018, η p 2 = .037), indicating a greater reduction in symptoms of depression and burnout with PFA compared to psychoeducation training. Conclusion: This culturally adapted PFA training intervention was highly acceptable among Chinese HCWs and was feasible in a front-line care setting. Preliminary findings indicated positive changes for the PFA training intervention on knowledge, skills, attitudes, resilience, self-efficacy, compassion satisfaction, and post-traumatic growth, especially a reduction of depression and burnout. Further modifications are recommended and a fully powered evaluation of PFA training is warranted.

Relationship between metabolic status, physical activity and cardiovascular disease in participants with obesity.

We aimed to investigate the independent and joint associations between metabolic status, PA (physical activity) and risk of CVD (cardiovascular disease) in participants with obesity. We included 109,301 adults with obesity free of baseline CVD enrolled from 2006 to 2010 in the UK Biobank cohort (aged 56 ± 7.9 years). Based on metabolic status, obesity was grouped into metabolically healthy obesity (MHO; free of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and diabetes; n = 26,989; BMI 33 ± 3.3 kg/m2) and metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUO; n = 82,312; BMI 34 ± 4.0 kg/m2). PA was categorized into four groups according to moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA): none, low, medium, and high. Multivariable Cox regression models were used for the main analyses adjusting for sociodemographic factors, lifestyles and comorbidities. There were 8,059 CVD events during a median follow-up of 8.1 years. MHO was associated with a 42% reduced risk of CVD compared with MUO (HR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.53-0.63). A significant interaction effect between PA and metabolic status on CVD risk was found. Among MUO participants, individuals with PA had significantly decreased CVD risk when compared with no MVPA (HR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.81-0.94 for low PA; HR = 0.85, 95% CI: 0.78-0.93 for medium PA; and HR = 0.86, 95% CI: 0.80-0.92 for high PA). The lowest CVD risk was observed in MHO & medium PA group when compared with MUO & no MVPA (HR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.37-0.56). Both MHO and any MVPA were associated with reduced risk of CVD in adults with obesity, while PA could modify the relationship between metabolic status and CVD risk.

The combined effect of neuro-modulation and neuro-stimulation on pain in patients with cervical radiculopathy – a double-blinded, two-arm parallel randomized controlled trial

Introduction Cervical radiculopathy is one of those disabling conditions which results in central and peripheral pain and thus affects the quality of life. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and exercises produce analgesic effect but their long-term effect has not been available to date. Transcranial Direct Current stimulation (tDCS) is known to produce promising effects on central pain by targeting cortical activity. Purpose To determine the combined effect of tDCS and TENS with exercises on pain and quality of life in patients with cervical radiculopathy. Method Forty four patients (male: female = 26:18) of the age group 18–50 years were recruited and randomly allocated into the experimental group and control group. The experimental group received active anodal tDCS for 20 min with an intensity of 2 mA, while the control group received sham anodal tDCS. TENS over the pain distribution area for 20 min with 5 Hz intensity and 80-150 ms pulse duration followed by neck-specific exercises were given in both groups. This protocol was given 5 days a week for 4 weeks. Pre and post-assessments were obtained through outcome measures that the Numeric Pain Rating Scale and Neck Disability Index for the measurement of pain, functional disability, and quality of life. Result Paired t-test/Wilcoxon-Signed Rank test, and Index and Mann–Whitney U test were used to compare the demographic variables within and across the groups, respectively for Neck Disability for Numeric Pain Rating Scale, keeping the P-value < 0.05 as significant. One-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied to determine the between-subject factor differences. Post hoc tests with Bonferroni correction for repeated analyses were performed. Results depicted a significant effect for NDI (P = 0.001 for both groups) and NPRS (P = 0.003 for the experimental group and 0.007 for the control group). Significant Interaction effect (time*group) was observed for NDI (F = 42, 5382.77) and NPRS (F = 42, 1844.57) with a P-value of 0.001 for both outcome measures. Clinical significance was observed for both outcome measures having a mean difference in 50.21 and 4.57 for NDI and NPRS, respectively compared with the established MCID of 13.2 and 2.2 scores for respective outcome measures. Conclusion It was concluded that active tDCS along with TENS and exercise intervention was effective on pain, disability, and quality of life in patients with cervical radiculopathy.

MODELLING THE LINK BETWEEN CONFLICT MANAGEMENT STYLES, ORGANISATIONAL TRUST AND EMPLOYEE JOB SATISFACTION

While past studies have established a significant and positive relationship between conflict management styles and employee job satisfaction. However, the fundamental interaction behind this link remain unclear. To address this gap, calls for further research has been suggested, particularly on the interactive process through which conflict management styles, specifically, collaborating, accommodating, compromising, avoiding and dominating styles were cast as the key dimensions of conflict management styles that are likely to influence employee job satisfaction. Hence, in the present study a structured questionnaire was used to collect data from Academic and Non-academic staff of some selected public tertiary institutions located in North-Central and North-Western parts of Nigeria. Partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was adopted to test the hypothesized research model. The quantitative results indicated that collaborating, dominating, avoiding and compromising conflict management styles were significantly and positively related to employee job satisfaction. On the contrary, accommodating style demonstrated no significant effect on employee job satisfaction. The results further showed that organisational trust moderated the relationship between collaborating, avoiding, and compromising styles and employee job satisfaction. But, no significant interaction effect was found between organisational trust and both dominating and accommodating styles. Implications of the results for future research and practice, as well as the limitations of the study are highlighted. KEYWORDS: Employee Job Satisfaction, Conflict Management Styles, Organizational Trust PLS-SEM

Effects of Aquaculture and Thalassia testudinum on Sediment Organic Carbon in Xincun Bay, Hainan Island

Eutrophication due to aquaculture can cause the decline of seagrasses and impact their carbon storage capacity. This study explored the effects of aquaculture on the sediment organic carbon (SOC) in Thalassia testudinum seagrass beds using enzyme activity and microorganisms as indicators. Our results showed that the distance to aquaculture significantly increased the SOC and TN of sediments; the C/N ratio of sediments was reduced by the distance to aquaculture. Distance to aquaculture and seagrasses significantly impacted the δ13C of sediments, and their significant interactive effects on the δ13C of sediments were found. Distance to aquaculture and seagrasses had significantly interactive effects on the cellulase activity of sediments. Distance to aquaculture and seagrasses separately reduced the invertase activity of sediments. SOC in the seagrass bed was significantly positively impacted by cellulase activity and polyphenol oxidase activity in sediments. Firmicutes, Desulfobacterota and Chloroflexi were the dominant taxa in the S1 and S2 locations. From the S1 location to the S2 location, the relative abundances of Firmicutes and Desulfobacterota increased. The functional profiles of COG were relatively similar between the S1 and S2 locations. BugBase phenotype predictions indicated that the microbial phenotypes of all the seagrass sediment samples were dominated by anaerobic bacteria in terms of oxygen utilizing phenotypes. FAPROTAX functional predictions indicated that aquaculture affects functions associated with seagrass bed sediment bacteria, particularly those related to carbon and nitrogen cycling. This study can provide an important basis for understanding the response mechanism of global carbon sink changes to human activities such as aquaculture and supply more scientific data for promoting the conservation and management of seagrass beds.

The HINT1 Gene rs2526303 Polymorphism and Its Association with Personality Traits in Cigarette Smokers.

The development of a substance use disorder (SUD) is a multifaceted process influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Recent research has suggested the potential involvement of the HINT1 gene in various aspects of plasticity, mood regulation, anxiety-like behaviour, and stress-coping mechanisms. Moreover, personality traits are also recognised to be instrumental in developing substance dependency. Given these considerations, our study investigated the associations among cigarette smoking, personality traits, and the rs2526303 polymorphism. Additionally, we investigated the interactions between personality traits and rs2526303 in the HINT1 gene. The study group comprised 531 volunteers: 375 cigarette users (mean age = 29.42 ± 10.72; F = 49%, M = 51%) and 156 never-smokers (mean age = 26.93 ± 10.09; F = 79%, M = 21%). Genotyping was conducted using the real-time PCR method, and the NEO Five-Factor Personality Inventory and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory were administered. There were no statistically significant differences in the frequency of rs2526303 genotypes and alleles in the cigarette user group compared to the control group. Compared to the control group, the cigarette users obtained higher scores in the assessment of the NEO-FFI Extraversion scale and lower results for the NEO-FFI Openness, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness scales. Additionally, there was a statistically significant effect of rs2526303 genotype interaction and cigarette-using status on the conscientiousness scale. These outcomes collectively suggest a notable association between cigarette smoking and specific dimensions of personality, particularly highlighting differences in extraversion, openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness. Furthermore, the detected interaction effect involving rs2526303 concerning conscientiousness signifies a complex interplay between genetic factors and smoking behaviour.

Shelf-life and post-harvest quality of tomato (Lycopesicon esculentum Mill.) varieties to different packaging materials at Mersa, North Wollo, Ethiopia

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) has a short shelf life at ambient conditions and is a highly perishable crop. Extreme post-harvest losses occur as a result of the wrong packaging materials. However, by employing the right packing materials, tomato varietals can have longer shelf lives. Globally rising fresh tomato demand has forced the development of essential mechanisms, including packaging materials, to improve shelf life. The current study was initiated to evaluate the quality and shelf-life of tomato varieties in response to packaging materials at Mersa, North Wollo, Ethiopia, during 2021 cropping season. Three replications of a completely randomized design were used to test three tomato varieties (Roma VF, Oval red and Woyno) and seven packing materials [closed carton (CC), open carton (OC), closed wooden box (CWB), open wooden box (OWB), perforated polyethylene bag (PPB), non-perforated polyethylene bag (NPPB) and control (C)] at room temperature (20-22°C). According to the findings, there is a significant (P&lt;0.05) interaction effect between packaging materials and varieties on a number of parameters, including physiological weight loss, decay percentage, disease incidence, total soluble solids (TSS), tomato fruit PH, juice color score, overall acceptability, marketability percentage, and shelf life. Non-perforated polyethylene plastic experienced the highest physiological weight losses of 79.88% and 79.63% after 18 days of storage. Roma VF variety showed the greatest weight loss. In addition, PPB showed the lowest decay percentage (20%) and maximum marketability (20%) during the 18th day of storage. At the end of storage, NPPB with Roma VF and Woyno varieties had a substantially (100%) larger decay loss of tomato fruits. NPPB has been linked to the highest disease incidence (20%). Roma VF and Oval red recorded the highest pH tomato fruit’s color and overall acceptability score on PPB. It can, thus, be concluded that packaging of tomato fruits in PPB can extend shelf-life with better-quality of the produce. However, to develop plausible recommendation, the study should be repeated in multi-location with more packaging methods and varieties over seasons.

The mixed effect of Endocrine-Disrupting chemicals on biological age Acceleration: Unveiling the mechanism and potential intervention target

IntroductionAlthough previous studies investigated the potential adverse effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) on biological age acceleration and aging-related diseases, the mixed effect of multiple types of EDCs on biological age acceleration, including its potential underlying mechanism, remains unclear. MethodsData from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were used to analyze biological age measures, including Klemera-Doubal method biological age (KDM-BA), phenotypic age, and homeostatic dysregulation (HD). Weight quantile sum (WQS) regression was performed to screen biological age-related EDCs (BA-EDCs) and assess the mixed effect of BA-EDCs on biological age acceleration and aging-related disease. Targets of BA-EDCs were obtained from three databases, while heart aging-related genes were obtained from the Aging Anno database. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and MCODE algorithm were applied to identify potential interactions between BA-EDC targets and heart aging-related genes. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis were performed to identify related pathways. ResultsThis cross-sectional study included 1,439 participants. A decile increase in BA-EDCs co-exposure was associated with 0.31 years and 0.17 years of KDM-BA and phenotypic age acceleration, respectively. The mixed effect of BA-EDCs was associated with an increased prevalence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Vitamins C and E demonstrated a significant interaction effect on the association between BA-EDCs and KDM-BA acceleration. PPI network and functional enrichment analysis indicated that the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications was significantly enriched. ConclusionOur results showed that the co-exposure effect of BA-EDCs was associated with biological age acceleration and ASCVD, with the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway being the underlying mechanism. Vitamins C and E may also be an actionable target for preventing EDC-induced biological aging.

A single all-out bout of 30-s sprint-cycle performed on 5 consecutive days per week over 6weeks does not enhance cardiovascular fitness, maximal strength, and clinical health markers in physically active young adults.

This study examined the effects of a single all-out bout of 30-s sprint-cycle performed daily for 5 consecutive days per week for 6weeks, on aerobic fitness, muscle strength and metabolic-health markers in physically active young males and females. Healthy, physically active 20-28year olds, were randomly assigned to either experimental (EXP, N = 11) or non-training control (CON, N = 8) group. With supervision, the EXP group performed one bout of 30-s sprint-cycle daily, Mondays to Fridays over 6weeks, while CON group continued with their usual lifestyle. The followings were measured at pre- and post-intervention: maximal aerobic power, peak torque of knee extensors and flexors at velocities 30°s-1 and 300°s-1, resting heart rate, resting blood pressure, body fat percentage, fasting lipid profile, fasting blood glucose, and fasting insulin levels. There were no significant improvements in the EXP group for all the measured variables (all P > 0.05); except for significant interaction effects in peak torque of knee extensors at 30°s-1 (P = 0.044) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (P = 0.046). Post hoc test indicate that CON group showed decline in their low-density lipo-proteins levels (P = 0.024). Six weeks of one all-out bout of 30-s sprint-cycle per day, for 5 consecutive days per week, was ineffective in improving cardiovascular fitness, maximal strength, and most health markers in physically active young adults. The present results when combined with the previous literature suggest that there is a possibility of a minimum threshold for a number of sprint-cycle bouts needed to be performed before any form of cardio-metabolic-health benefit is accrued.