bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the Origin of Elevated Amounts of Iron and Manganese in a Dam Reservoir
Authors: Michalopoulou Maria , Depountis Nikolaos , Zagana Eleni , Avramidis Pavlos
Published: December 2024

On the outskirts of the Pinios dam reservoir (Ilia Regional Unit, Greece), a water treatment plant serves the water supply needs of the surrounding municipalities, in which high concentrations of Fe and Mn, before treatment, have been observed. The main purpose of this research was to investigate the mechanism of increased iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) levels in the reservoir of the Pinios dam, which impacts its water treatment plant operation. A wide range of hydrochemical and sedimentological analyses were conducted over a hydrological year, focusing on the spatial and temporal distribution of Fe and Mn in both water and sediment samples across the established research monitoring stations. Sediment samples from the reservoir’s bottom revealed predominantly fine-grained material, rich in total organic carbon, with elevated Mn and Fe oxide levels. Significant seasonal variations in Fe and Mn levels were also discovered, with higher Mn levels observed in the anoxic bottom waters of the reservoir during the dry season, attributed to the reduced conditions favoring Mn oxide dissolution over Fe. Conversely, during the wet season, a homogenization of metal concentrations throughout the water column was observed due to increased oxygenation and freshwater inflow. These outcomes were confirmed by the hydrochemical analysis, indicating that the redox conditions, pH, and temperature, as well as the presence of organic matter, significantly influence the mobility and bioavailability of these metals in the reservoir. The findings of this study clarify that the high concentration of Fe and Mn can be linked to the mineral composition of the upstream Neogene and flysch formations in the study area. As these formations are affected by geological weathering, they tend to enrich the streams, through soil erosion and runoff processes, with metals like Fe and Mn, which are eventually transported into the dam reservoir. This study highlights the critical influence of lithological, sedimentological, and hydrological factors on the redox conditions and seasonal stratification that govern the behavior of Fe and Mn concentrations and mobility in dam reservoirs. These findings are critical for informing water resource management practices and dam infrastructure operators and developing effective environmental conservation strategies in similar cases.
Sensory Health and Universal Health Coverage in Canada—An Environmental Scan
Authors: Asheber Hanna , Minhas Renu , Hatolkar Ved , Jaiswal Atul , Wittich Walter
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: The World Federation of the Deafblind Global Report 2023 reports that many countries do not have a comprehensive identification, assessment, and referral system for persons with deafblindness, a combination of hearing and vision loss, across all age groups and geographic regions. The scan seeks to inform researchers, policymakers, and community-based organizations about the status of and gaps in sensory healthcare initiatives in Canada, with the intent to raise awareness to enhance the integration and coordination of eye and ear care services. Methods: We conducted an environmental scan of Canada’s healthcare system and current public health policies addressing vision and hearing care in Canada at the federal and provincial levels. The scan was conducted using published literature searches from five scientific databases—Embase, Medline, PsycINFO, PubMed, and CINAHL—in combination with the gray literature review of federal, provincial, and territorial governments and non-profit organizations’ websites from April 2011–October 2022. Out of 1257 articles screened, 86 studies were included that met the inclusion/exclusion criteria. In total, 13 reports were included in the gray literature search, with 99 total articles used in the analysis. Results: The thematic findings indicate stigma and discrimination toward individuals with disabilities and marginalized communities (Indigenous people, rural communities, recent immigrants, people of older age, and people with disabilities), including hearing, vision, or dual sensory loss, persist. Barriers to vision and hearing healthcare access include inadequate policies, underinvestment in vision and/or hearing services, limited collaboration and coordinated services between hearing and vision services, discrepancies in insurance coverages, and lack of health system support. Conclusions: This scan demonstrates the persisting barriers to vision and/or hearing services present in Canada, stemming from inadequate policy and limited service coordination. Future work to address gaps, evaluate public education, and develop integrated sensory healthcare initiatives to enhance coordinated eye and ear care services, as recommended in the WHO Report on Hearing and Vision, is imperative.
Passive Smoking Is Associated with the Risk of Functional Bowel Disorders Among College Freshmen
Authors: Guo Jinlu , Du Fan , Duan Chaofan , Chen Can , Yang Jingze , Yang Xin , Liu Shi , Bai Tao , Hou Xiaohua
Published: December 2024

Background: Functional bowel disorders (FBDs) have detrimental effects on young adults, but the risk factors were not fully explored. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and potential risk factors of FBDs in college freshmen, including, in particular, the association between passive smoking and the risk and symptoms of FBDs. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in September 2019 in freshmen of Huazhong University of Science and Technology with a random cluster sampling method. Validated questionnaires were voluntarily completed by participants. Rome IV criteria were applied for the diagnosis of FBDs. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis (Model 1: unadjusted; Model 2: adjusted for age and sex; Model 3: adjusted for age, sex, intake frequency of coffee and juice, regular exercise, total sedentary time, sleep quality, interpersonal relationship, and SLSI scores) were performed to determine the potential risk factors of FBDs. Results: A total of 3074 participants were included in this study, among whom 236 college freshmen were diagnosed with FBDs. There was a positive relationship between passive smoking and the risk of FBDs (crude odds ratio [OR] = 2.084, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.480, 2.936, Model 1; adjusted OR = 1.825, 95%CI: 1.245, 2.675, Model 3). Moreover, the symptoms of hard stool, exertion, and sensation of obstruction in defecation were more frequent in passive smokers than non-passive smokers among FBD patients. Meanwhile, diarrhea was comparable between passive smokers and non-passive smokers among FBD patients. Conclusions: In the present study, around 7.68% of college freshmen were found to have FBDs. Passive smoking was positively associated with the risk of FBDs. Furthermore, passive smoking was significantly associated with constipation-related symptoms rather than diarrhea among FBD patients.
Benefits of Complementary Therapies During Pregnancy, Childbirth and Postpartum Period: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lima-De-La-Iglesia Consolación , Magni Eleonora , Botello-Hermosa Alicia , Guerra-Martín María Dolores
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: The current trend in maternal health is to foster more natural and less medicalized therapies, with increasing interest in complementary therapies. This study has analyzed the benefits of complementary therapies during pregnancy, delivery and the postpartum period. Methods: A paired systematic review was carried out (PROSPERO: CRD42024543981). The following databases were consulted: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and CINAHL. Inclusion criteria were randomized clinical trials about complementary therapies in women during pregnancy, delivery and/or the postpartum period. The risk of bias of the clinical trials was evaluated using the revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for randomized trials version 2 (RoB-2). Results: A total of 1684 studies were found, with a final selection of 17. The most studied symptom was pain. Hydrotherapy, perinatal Swiss ball exercises, acupressure, virtual reality and foot reflexology provided a significant reduction in pain during labor. Similarly, aromatherapy, electroacupuncture and massage have shown significant benefits in pain management after Cesarean. Yoga, when practiced during pregnancy, effectively reduces anxiety and depression, with similar benefits observed when practiced during the postpartum period. Conclusions: Complementary therapies improve pain, anxiety and depression management across maternal health phases.
Rare Breast Cancers Review
Authors: Song Bowen , Singh Harnoor
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Breast cancer is one of the most common malignancies in women, with rare subtypes presenting unique clinical challenges. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of rare breast cancers, including both epithelial and non-epithelial subtypes, and explores their epidemiology, pathology, prognosis, and treatment approaches. Methods: A systematic review was conducted focusing on recent advancements in the treatment of rare breast cancer subtypes. Articles were selected based on criteria emphasizing studies from the past five years, with older foundational studies included where necessary. The analysis incorporated molecular profiling, clinical trials, and advancements in targeted and immunotherapies, where possible. Results: Rare epithelial subtypes, such as tubular, mucinous, and medullary carcinomas, demonstrate distinct clinical and pathological features, with generally favorable prognoses compared to invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC). Non-epithelial cancers, including sarcomas and primary breast lymphomas, require individualized treatment due to aggressive behavior and poor prognosis in certain cases. Recent advancements in targeted therapies (e.g., HER2 inhibitors, PI3K inhibitors, and PARP inhibitors) and immunotherapies (e.g., PD-1 inhibitors) have shown promise in improving outcomes for specific molecularly characterized subtypes. Conclusions: While the management of common breast cancers has become increasingly sophisticated, rare subtypes continue to pose challenges due to limited research and small patient populations. Advances in molecular profiling and next-generation sequencing are pivotal in identifying actionable mutations and expanding personalized treatment options. Future research should focus on clinical trials and collaborative efforts to refine treatment strategies and improve outcomes for these rare subtypes.
Translation, Cultural Adaptation, and Validation of the Spanish Version of the Person-Centred Practice Inventory-Staff (PCPI-S)
Authors: Carvajal-Valcárcel Ana , Benitez Edgar , Lizarbe-Chocarro Marta , Galán-Espinilla María José , Vázquez-Calatayud Mónica , Errasti-Ibarrondo Begoña , Choperena Ana , McCormack Brendan , Tyagi Vaibhav , La Rosa-Salas Virginia
Published: December 2024

Background: Person-centredness, a global movement in healthcare, is consistent with international developments in healthcare policy. It is important to have instruments to measure person-centred care. The Person-Centred Practice Inventory-Staff (PCPI-S) is an internationally recognized instrument that aims to measure how healthcare staff experience person-centred practice. Aim: To perform the cultural adaptation and psychometric testing of a Spanish version of the PCPI-S (PCPI-S (Sp)). Method: A two-stage research design was implemented as follows: (1) the translation and cultural adaptation of the PCPI-S from English to Spanish using the “Translation and Cultural Adaptation of Patient Reported Outcomes Measures-Principles of Good Practice”; (2) a quantitative cross-sectional survey for the psychometric evaluation of the PCPI-S. Test–retest reliability was evaluated using the Kendall tau concordance coefficient, internal reliability was assessed through the ordinal theta (OT) coefficient, and confirmatory factor analysis was performed to examine the theoretical measurement model. Results: A Spanish version of the PCPI-S was obtained. There were no significant difficulties in the translation process or the consulting sessions. A sample of 287 healthcare professionals participated in the study at least once. All the items showed at least a fair level of test–retest reliability. The OT scores were adequate (>0.69). The model showed good to adequate levels of fit: CFI = 0.89, SRMR = 0.068; RMSEA = 0.060 with CI90% (0.056–0.063). Conclusions: The Spanish translation of the PCPI-S was psychometrically valid when tested with Spanish healthcare professionals. This instrument will help identify professionals’ perceptions of person-centred practice, track the evolution of this practice over time, and assess interventions aimed at improving person-centred practice.
Racial and Ethnic (In)equity in Development of Power Through Place-Based Initiatives
Authors: Silberberg Mina , Dupre Matthew E. , Moody James , Patel Meera , Vemulapalli Anika , Easterling Douglas
Published: December 2024

Background: Place-based initiatives (PBIs) invest in a geographic area and often build community power to improve well-being. However, there can be differences in results for different groups within a community. Methods: In six communities, we measured differences in “power to” by race/ethnicity at two points for the first phase of the PBI Healthy Places North Carolina (HPNC) using five indicators: (1) representation in network of actors collaborating to improve health, (2) leadership attributes, (3) perceived change in attributes due to HPNC, (4) network centrality, and (5) perceived change in network ties due to HPNC. Results: Latine populations were underrepresented. In four (majority White) communities, there were indications of White advantage. In one, White centrality was greater than non-White. In another, White actors consistently rated themselves higher for leadership attributes. In two, a gap in leadership attributes favoring White actors appeared at Wave 2. In two counties with African American majorities, non-White attributes ranked higher than White. Conclusions: Each indicator provided unique insight. Results provide new evidence of measurement validity and reliability. Results indicate that when PBIs designed to address the needs of low-resource communities do not proactively concern themselves with racial/ethnic equity and power (as HPNC would do in the years after this study), they may result in greater White benefit from PBI or failure to close existing gaps. Findings aligned with the “political reality” model of the correspondence between the size of African American population and their perceived self-efficacy. Changes over time and inter-county differences confirm need for early measurement of power differences and changes.
Impact of Symptom Distress on the Quality of Life of Oncology Palliative Care Patients: A Portuguese Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gonçalves Florbela , Gaudêncio Margarida , Paiva Ivo , Semedo Valéria Andrade , Rego Francisca , Nunes Rui
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Uncontrolled symptoms are widely recognized as one of the main challenges in oncology palliative care patients. The central aim of palliative care is to improve the patient’s quality of life. In recent years, there has been a growing use of patient-reported outcome measures in palliative care, particularly to evaluate symptoms, quality of care, and well-being. Aim: To evaluate the sociodemographic and clinical profile, symptom distress, and perceived quality of life in oncology palliative care patients admitted to a specialized palliative care unit in Portugal. Methods: This study was cross-sectional, descriptive, and correlational, carried out in the inpatient setting of the palliative care unit at a tertiary oncology hospital (at admission). The evaluated protocol included a sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire, as well as two measurement instruments: the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS) and the Palliative Care Outcome Scale (POS), both filled out by the patients. Data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS® Statistics version 25.0, with a significance level set at 5% (p < 0.05). Results: The majority of participants in this sample were male (61.7%), with a mean age of around 72 years. More than half of the patients admitted (n = 34; 56.7%) were being monitored in outpatient care. Digestive and head and neck cancers were the most commonly found in the sample (41.7% and 20%, respectively). A significant correlation was found between high symptom intensity and poorer quality of life and care (p < 0.01). This association was particularly pronounced for symptoms such as pain, weakness, depression, anxiety, and anorexia. Conclusions: This study revealed a positive correlation between overall symptom severity and a perceived deterioration in quality of life, well-being, and quality of care. Future studies should consider utilizing alternative assessment tools for evaluating symptoms and quality of care. Additionally, including non-cancer palliative patients in similar studies may provide further valuable insights.
Time to Form a Habit: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Health Behaviour Habit Formation and Its Determinants
Authors: Singh Ben , Murphy Andrew , Maher Carol , Smith Ashleigh E.
Published: December 2024

Background: Healthy lifestyles depend on forming crucial habits through the process of habit formation, emphasising the need to establish positive habits and break negative ones for lasting behaviour changes. This systematic review aims to explore the time required for developing health-related habits. Methods: Six databases (Scopus, PsychINFO, CINAHL, EMBASE, Medline and PubMed) were searched to identify experimental intervention studies assessing self-report habit or automaticity questionnaires (e.g., the self-report habit index (SRHI) or the self-report behavioural automaticity index (SRBAI)), or the duration to reach automaticity in health-related behaviours. Habit formation determinants were also evaluated. Meta-analysis was performed to assess the change in the SRHI or SRBAI habit scores between pre- and post-intervention, and the study quality was assessed using the PEDro scale. Results: A total of 20 studies involving 2601 participants (mean age range: 21.5–73.5 years) were included. Most studies had a high risk of bias rating (n = 11). Health behaviours included physical activity (n = 8), drinking water (n = 2), vitamin consumption (n = 1), flossing (n = 3), healthy diet (n = 8), microwaving a dishcloth (for foodborne disease reduction, n = 2) and sedentary behaviour reduction (n = 1). Four studies reported the median or mean times to reach habit formation, ranging from 59–66 days (median) and 106–154 days (means), with substantial individual variability (4–335 days). The meta-analysis showed significant improvements in habit scores pre- to post-intervention across different habits (standardised mean difference: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.49–0.88). Frequency, timing, type of habit, individual choice, affective judgements, behavioural regulation and preparatory habits significantly influence habit strength, with morning practices and self-selected habits generally exhibiting greater strength. Conclusions: Emerging evidence on health-related habit formation indicates that while habits can start forming within about two months, the time required varies significantly across individuals. A limitation of this meta-analysis is the relatively small number of studies included, with flossing and diet having the most evidence among the behaviours examined. Despite this, improvements in habit strength post-intervention are evident across various behaviours, suggesting that targeted interventions can be effective. Future research should aim to expand the evidence base with well-designed studies to better understand and enhance the process of establishing beneficial health habits.
What Helps or Hinders End-of-Life Care in Adult Intensive Care Units in Saudi Arabia? A Mixed-Methods Study Protocol
Authors: Almalki Nabat , Boyle Breidge , O’Halloran Peter
Published: December 2024

Background: In the intensive care unit, many patients are dying despite advanced therapeutic technology and optimized treatment. The critical care team is expected to deliver end-of-life care for the dying patient and their family. However, it is challenging to provide adequate support to families due to the ideas and emotions associated with the end of life. This can be influenced by different beliefs and cultures among patients and healthcare professionals. Added to this, research about end-of-life practices in intensive care units in Saudi Arabia is limited. Therefore, this study protocol aims to examine: (1) What end-of-life care is provided by healthcare teams in adult intensive care units in Saudi Arabia? (2) What helps or hinders effective end-of-life care in adult intensive care units in Saudi Arabia? Method: This study will use a mixed-methods, sequential, explanatory design consisting of two phases. Phase 1 will include a cross-sectional study design with a convenience sample of approximately 400 healthcare providers who will be invited from three military hospitals in Saud Arabia. the Palliative and End-of-Life Care Index (PEOL Care Index) will be used to assess palliative and end-of-life care education, practice, and perceived competence among the staff. Additionally, a questionnaire on the barriers to optimal end-of-life care and the perceived benefit of potential strategies to improve end-of-life care will be applied to obtain the views of managers. Phase 2 of the study will be a qualitative descriptive design involving semi-structured interviews with healthcare providers, managers, and bereaved family members. Conclusion: The study findings will contribute to understanding current practice in relation to palliative and end-of-life care in intensive care units in Saudi Arabia. It will provide valuable insight into barriers to and facilitators of care, which will help to develop strategies and interventions to improve the quality of end-of-life practices in ICUs. In addition, this research will provide significant information regarding family members’ experiences of end-of-life care provided to their relatives.
Genome-Wide Identification of the ALMT Gene Family in Nine Rosaceae Species and Functional Analysis Associated with Organic Acid Accumulation in Prunus mume
Authors: Lin Ximeng , Zhou Pengyu , Wu Yin , Wang Ziqi , Lu Yuying , Segbo Silas , Gao Feng , Ma Chengdong , Huang Xiao , Ni Zhaojun , Shi Ting , Gao Zhihong
Published: December 2024

ALMT (aluminum-activated malate transporter) proteins play crucial roles in the transport of organic acids and have significant implications for plant stress responses and development. While extensively studied in some plants, the characteristics and functional divergence of the ALMT gene family have not yet been thoroughly explored in Prunus mume and some other Rosaceae species. In this study, we systematically analyzed the ALMT gene family across nine Rosaceae species to explore their evolutionary relationships, structural characteristics, and functional roles. A total of 138 ALMT genes were identified and categorized into four groups based on a phylogenetic analysis. The motif analysis confirmed the accuracy of the phylogenetic grouping. The collinearity analysis indicated that whole-genome duplication events were the primary drivers of ALMT gene expansion in these species. Furthermore, the cis-acting element analysis revealed diverse regulatory elements associated with environmental responses, including abscisic acid, light, and jasmonic acid. The gene expression correlation analysis showed that PmALMT1 is primarily associated with malic acid accumulation, whereas PmALMT8 is related to citric acid accumulation. Further transient expression in Nicotiana benthamiana validated the above conclusion. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the evolution, function, and regulation of the ALMT gene family in Rosaceae species.
Co-Application of Nitric Oxide and Melatonin Alleviated Chromium-Induced Oxidative Stress and Improved Edible Flower Quality of Calendula officinalis L.
Authors: Zulfiqar Faisal , Moosa Anam , Darras Anastasios , Chen Jianjun , Şimşek Özhan , Akgöl Mehmet , İzgü Tolga , Alshaharni Mohammed O. , Alshaya Dalal Sulaiman , Alzamel Nurah M. , Alsharari Sultan F. , Fayad Eman , Mirmazloum Iman
Published: December 2024

Plant small molecules, such as nitric oxide (NO) and melatonin (MN) as natural and human health-friendly compounds, play important roles in the mitigation of abiotic stresses in plants. Heavy metals such as chromium (Cr) are hazardous for the survival of ornamentals, especially edible flowers. This study evaluated the effects of NO (50 µM; sourced as sodium nitroprusside) and MN (50 µM) applied two times through foliar spraying at 1-week intervals on alleviating Cr (120 µM; K2Cr2O7)-induced oxidative stress in edible flowers of Calendula officinalis cv. Orange King. Cr stress decreased plant dry mass, leaf SPAD values, net photosynthetic rates, and the maximum photochemical quantum yield (Fv/Fm), and increased the oxidative stress markers. The individual application of NO or MN significantly mitigated the adverse effects, and the combined application of NO and MN synergistically enhanced plant tolerance to Cr stress, including increased activities of antioxidant enzymes in plants and concentrations of carbohydrate, ascorbic acid, sugar, total protein, as well as ash contents of edible flowers. The co-application also significantly elevated the concentrations of total phenolics, flavonoids, free reducing power, antioxidant capacity DPPH, and total carotenoids in Cr-treated plants compared with those in Cr-stressed plants. Additionally, the essential oil contents in flowers increased in response to the signaling molecule treatment under Cr stress. Compared with individual applications, the co-application of NO and MN had more significant effects. Our results indicate that the combination of signaling molecules, such as MN and NO, can not only increase the biomass of edible calendula plants but also improve flower quality for use as a novel food.
Nature-Based Solutions (NbSs) to Improve Flood Preparedness in Barcelona Metropolitan Area (Northeastern Spain)
Authors: Sánchez-García Carlos , Corvacho-Ganahín Óscar , Santasusagna Riu Albert , Francos Marcos
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a novel study of the Nature-based Solutions (NbSs) approach to analyze and propose mitigation measures for extreme floods. The study area is the Llobregat River in Catalonia, which crosses urban areas. We have selected one section in the final stretch of 4.5 km in the Barcelona Metropolitan Area. The section has suffered several damages in the last floods (e.g., 2016, 2018 and 2019), and we propose measures to reduce flood risk. Therefore, we proposed the following three specific objectives: (a) the identification of critical areas in the river stretches; (b) the identification of NbS opportunities and utilities; and (c) the mitigation measures in concrete areas from NbSs. The effectiveness of a NbS is based on the 2D simulation of the Gloria flood event (20–21 January 2020) with HEC-RAS software (version 6.0) for the better management of stormwater, and it is influenced by design and placement aspects; however, the better use of NbSs can improve flood mitigation and enhance urban resilience.
The Reciprocal Effects of Prosociality, Peer Support and Psychological Well-Being in Adolescence: A Four-Wave Longitudinal Study
Authors: Affuso Gaetana , Picone Nicola , De Angelis Grazia , Dragone Mirella , Esposito Concetta , Pannone Maddalena , Zannone Anna , Bacchini Dario
Published: December 2024

The aim of this study was to analyze the reciprocal effects between prosociality, peer support and psychological well-being using a four-wave longitudinal study and a within-person analytical approach (random intercept cross-lagged panel model, RI-CLPM). A sample of 587 adolescents (males = 308; Mage = 14.23, SD = 0.58) enrolled in the first year of high school (9th grade) were recruited and followed over four years from 2016 (Time 1 [T1]) to 2019 (Time 4 [T4]). Once a year, they filled in a questionnaire measuring prosociality, peer support, and psychological well-being. The results from the RI-CLPM revealed that, at the between-person level, prosociality, peer support and psychological well-being were all positively associated. Conversely, at the within-person level and at all survey points, only psychological well-being positively predicted prosociality one year later. Specifically, we found that adolescents with higher levels of psychological well-being were more likely to show a tendency for prosocial behaviors over time. Promoting interventions aimed at enhancing psychological well-being may make adolescents more likely to engage in positive behaviors, such as prosocial ones, in a variety of contexts, thereby creating favorable social environments.
The Impact of Campylobacter, Salmonella, and Shigella in Diarrheal Infections in Central Africa (1998–2022): A Systematic Review
Authors: Zong Minko Ornella , Mabika Mabika Rolande , Moyen Rachel , Mounioko Franck , Ondjiangui Léonce Fauster , Yala Jean Fabrice
Published: December 2024

Background: Gastric diseases caused, in particular, by Campylobacter, non-typhoidal Salmonella, and Shigella resulting from food and/or water problems, are a disproportionately distributed burden in developing countries in Central Africa. The aim of this work was to compile a list of studies establishing the prevalence of the involvement of these bacterial genera in diarrheal syndromes in Central Africa from 1998 to 2022. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Articles for Systemic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, six (6) database (Pubmed, Google Scholar, Semantic Scholar, Freefullpdf, and Scinapse) were perused for research on the role of Campylobacter, Salmonella and Shigella diarrheal infections in humans and animals, in 9 country of Central Africa over from 1998 to 2022. Results: Seventeen articles were selected, including 16 on humans and one on animals. These data were recorded in 6 of the 9 countries of Central Africa, including Gabon (5), Angola (3), Cameroon (3), the Democratic Republic of Congo (3), Chad (2), and the Central African Republic (1). Mono-infections with Salmonella spp. were the most predominant (55.56%, n = 5/9), followed by an equal proportion of Campylobacter spp. and Shigella spp. with 44.44% (4/9), respectively and, co-infections with Campylobacter/Salmonella spp. and Salmonella/Shigella spp. with a prevalence of 11.11% (1/9) respectively. The most used diagnostic tool was conventional culture (82.35%) against 17.65% for PCR or real-time PCR. Conclusion: Despite the paucity of recorded data on the prevalence of diarrheal infections due to Campylobacter in this sub-region, it is crucial that scientific studies focus on the diagnosis and monitoring of this zoonotic bacterium. Also, improved diagnosis will necessarily involve the integration of molecular tools in the diagnosis of these diarrheic syndromes in both humans and animals.
Correction: Duan, Y.; Li, S. Effects of Plant Communities on Human Physiological Recovery and Emotional Reactions: A Comparative Onsite Survey and Photo Elicitation Study. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19, 721
Authors: Duan Yifan , Li Shuhua
Published: December 2024

In the original publication [...]
Estimation of Non-Photosynthetic Vegetation Cover Using the NDVI–DFI Model in a Typical Dry–Hot Valley, Southwest China
Authors: Fan Caiyi , Chen Guokun , Zhong Ronghua , Huang Yan , Duan Qiyan , Wang Ying
Published: December 2024

Non-photosynthetic vegetation (NPV) significantly impacts ecosystem degradation, drought, and wildfire risk due to its flammable and persistent litter. Yet, the accurate estimation of NPV in heterogeneous landscapes, such as dry–hot valleys, has been limited. This study utilized multi-source time-series remote sensing data from Sentinel-2 and GF-2, along with field surveys, to develop an NDVI-DFI ternary linear mixed model for quantifying NPV coverage (fNPV) in a typical dry–hot valley region in 2023. The results indicated the following: (1) The NDVI-DFI ternary linear mixed model effectively estimates photosynthetic vegetation coverage (fPV) and fNPV, aligning well with the conceptual framework and meeting key assumptions, demonstrating its applicability and reliability. (2) The RGB color composite image derived using the minimum inclusion endmember feature method (MVE) exhibited darker tones, suggesting that MVE tends to overestimate the vegetation fraction when distinguishing vegetation types from bare soil. On the other hand, the pure pixel index (PPI) method showed higher accuracy in estimation due to its higher spectral purity and better recognition of endmembers, making it more suitable for studying dry–hot valley areas. (3) Estimates based on the NDVI-DFI ternary linear mixed model revealed significant seasonal shifts between PV and NPV, especially in valleys and lowlands. From the rainy to the dry season, the proportion of NPV increased from 23.37% to 35.52%, covering an additional 502.96 km². In summary, these findings underscore the substantial seasonal variations in fPV and fNPV, particularly in low-altitude regions along the valley, highlighting the dynamic nature of vegetation in dry–hot environments.
Real-Time Co-Editing of Geographic Features
Authors: Matijević Hrvoje , Vranić Saša , Kranjčić Nikola , Cetl Vlado
Published: December 2024

Real-time GIS enables multiple geographically dislocated users to collaboratively edit geospatial data. However, being based on the strong consistency model, traditional real-time GIS implementations cannot provide fully automatic conflict resolution. In highly dynamic situations with increased probability for conflicts, this will hinder user experience. Conflict-free replicated data types (CRDTs), a technology based on a more relaxed concurrency control model called strong eventual consistency, can resolve all conflicts in real time, letting the users work on their local copies of the data without any restrictions. The application of CRDTs to real-time geospatial geometry co-editing has, to the best of our knowledge, not been investigated. Within this research, we therefore developed a simple web-based real-time geospatial geometry co-editing system using an existing CRDT implementation in Javascript coupled with OpenLayers. When applied to the co-editing of geospatial geometry in its native form, standard CRDT conflict resolution mechanics exhibit some issues. As an attempt to address these issues, we developed an advanced operation generation technique named “tentative operations”. This technique allows for the operations to be generated over the most recent session-wide state of the data, which in effect highly reduces concurrency and provides “geometry aware” conflict resolution. The tests we conducted using the developed system showed that in low-latency network conditions, the negative effects of standard CRDT conflict resolution mechanics do get minimized even under increased system loads.
A Multi-Level Analysis of Bus Ridership in Buffalo, New York
Authors: Wang Chihuangji , Park Jiyoung
Published: December 2024

It is essential to understand how the built environment affects transit ridership to prioritize public transit and make it more appealing, particularly in mid-sized cities on the Rust Belt due to the experience of population decrease and urban sprawl in the U.S. Although many studies have looked at factors that influence ridership, there is still a need for a methodological design that considers both route and environment characteristics for bus ridership. This study examined the daily ridership of 3794 bus stops across 57 routes in the Buffalo area of New York State and used random coefficients models to account for different levels of characteristics (bus stop level, route level, and transportation analysis zone (TAZ) level). The study found that bus frequency and bus stop centrality were positively correlated with ridership, while total route stops had a negative effect. By controlling the impact of bus routes, the study showed that the multi-level design using random coefficients models was more effective than traditional OLS and spatial lag models in quantifying the impact of bus routes and TAZs. These findings provide local policy implications for route design, bus operation, and transit resource allocation.
Special Issue “The Tight Junction and Its Proteins: From Structure to Pathologies”
Authors: Krug Susanne M. , Fromm Michael
Published: December 2024

Most tight junction (TJ) proteins build epithelial and endothelial barriers [...]
CAR T Cell Nanosymbionts: Revealing the Boundless Potential of a New Dyad
Authors: Baena Juan C. , Pérez Lucy M. , Toro-Pedroza Alejandro , Kitawaki Toshio , Loukanov Alexandre
Published: December 2024

Cancer treatment has traditionally focused on eliminating tumor cells but faces challenges such as resistance and toxicity. A promising direction involves targeting the tumor microenvironment using CAR T cell immunotherapy, which has shown potential for treating relapsed and refractory cancers but is limited by high costs, resistance, and toxicity, especially in solid tumors. The integration of nanotechnology into ICAM cell therapy, a concept we have named “CAR T nanosymbiosis”, offers new opportunities to overcome these challenges. Nanomaterials can enhance CAR T cell delivery, manufacturing, activity modulation, and targeting of the tumor microenvironment, providing better control and precision. This approach aims to improve the efficacy of CAR T cells against solid tumors, reduce associated toxicities, and ultimately enhance patient outcomes. Several studies have shown promising results, and developing this therapy further is essential for increasing its accessibility and effectiveness. Our “addition by subtraction model” synthesizes these multifaceted elements into a unified strategy to advance cancer treatment paradigms.
The Application of Nanomaterials in the Treatment of Pancreatic-Related Diseases
Authors: Ma Jing , Li Xue , Wang Chunru
Published: December 2024

Pancreatic diseases, typically including pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, and diabetes, pose enormous threats to people’s lives and health. To date, therapeutics with high therapeutic efficacy and low side effects are still challenging. With the development of nanotechnology, nanomaterials have successfully been applied in pancretic disease treatment. Here, we first introduce the diversity of nanomaterials and the effects of their different physicochemical properties on pancreatic function. Following this, we analyze the potential of nanomaterials to enhance pancreatic targeting by overcoming the challenges of traditional delivery methods through surface modifications, structural adjustments, and optimized drug loading. Then, we introduce the application of structurally optimized nanomaterials to pancreatic-related diseases. For instance, on pancreatic cancer (as drug delivery platforms, for the promotion of radiation therapy, and as multifunctional tools), pancreatitis (as drug delivery systems, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic agents), and diabetes (as insulin delivery carriers, for protecting pancreatic β cells, and for improving insulin resistance). Through analysis of the progress of current research, we summarize how nanomaterials can enhance treatment efficacy while minimizing side effects. Finally, we look forward to the prospects of nanomaterials in pancreatic disease treatment.
CHD1L Inhibitor OTI-611 Synergizes with Chemotherapy to Enhance Antitumor Efficacy and Prolong Survival in Colorectal Cancer Mouse Models
Authors: Sala Rita , Esquer Hector , Kellett Timothy , Clune Sophia , Awolade Paul , Pike Laura A. , Zhou Qiong , Messersmith Wells A. , LaBarbera Daniel V.
Published: December 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent and deadly forms of cancer. It is universally treated with a combination of the DNA damaging chemotherapy drugs irinotecan, 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU), and oxaliplatin. CHD1L is a novel oncogene that plays critical roles in chromatin remodeling and DNA damage repair, as well as the regulation of malignant gene expression. We show that an inhibitor of CHD1L, OTI-611, when combined with chemotherapy significantly increases DNA damage in CRC cell lines. OTI-611 also synergizes with SN-38, 5-FU, and oxaliplatin in killing CRC tumor organoids. We also demonstrate that, as in breast cancer, OTI-611 traps CHD1L, PARP1, and PARP2 onto chromatin. The entrapment of CHD1L causes the deprotection of PAR chains in the nucleus, ultimately resulting in cell death by CHD1Li-mediated PARthanatos, as measured by AIF translocation to the nucleus. Finally, the combination of low doses of OTI-611 with irinotecan significantly reduces tumor volume and extends survival in CRC xenograft mouse models compared to irinotecan alone. The combination of standard of care chemotherapy drugs with CHD1Li represents a promising advancement in future therapeutic strategies for CRC and other cancers driven by CHD1L.
The Genomic and Biologic Landscapes of Breast Cancer and Racial Differences
Authors: Galappaththi Sapthala P Loku , Smith Kelly R. , Alsatari Enas S. , Hunter Rachel , Dyess Donna L. , Turbat-Herrera Elba A. , Dasgupta Santanu
Published: December 2024

Breast cancer is a significant health challenge worldwide and is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women globally. This review provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer biology, genomics, and microbial dysbiosis, focusing on its various subtypes and racial differences. Breast cancer is primarily classified into carcinomas and sarcomas, with carcinomas constituting most cases. Epidemiology and breast cancer risk factors are important for public health intervention. Staging and grading, based on the TNM and Nottingham grading systems, respectively, are crucial to determining the clinical outcome and treatment decisions. Histopathological subtypes include in situ and invasive carcinomas, such as invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) and invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC). The review explores molecular subtypes, including Luminal A, Luminal B, Basal-like (Triple Negative), and HER2-enriched, and delves into breast cancer’s histological and molecular progression patterns. Recent research findings related to nuclear and mitochondrial genetic alterations, epigenetic reprogramming, and the role of microbiome dysbiosis in breast cancer and racial differences are also reported. The review also provides an update on breast cancer’s current diagnostics and treatment modalities.
The Role of Macrophages in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Their Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Bannister Megan E. , Chatterjee Devnandan A. , Shetty Shishir , Patten Daniel A.
Published: December 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a significant clinical burden globally and is predicted to continue to increase in incidence for the foreseeable future. The treatment of HCC is complicated by the fact that, in the majority of cases, it develops on a background of advanced chronic inflammatory liver disease. Chronic inflammation can foster an immunosuppressive microenvironment that promotes tumour progression and metastasis. In this setting, macrophages make up a major immune component of the HCC tumour microenvironment, and in this review, we focus on their contribution to HCC development and progression. Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) are largely derived from infiltrating monocytes and their potent anti-inflammatory phenotype can be induced by factors that are found within the tumour microenvironment, such as growth factors, cytokines, hypoxia, and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. In general, experimental evidence suggest that TAMs can exhibit a variety of functions that aid HCC tumour progression, including the promotion of angiogenesis, resistance to drug therapy, and releasing factors that support tumour cell proliferation and metastasis. Despite their tumour-promoting profile, there is evidence that the underlying plasticity of these cells can be targeted to help reprogramme TAMs to drive tumour-specific immune responses. We discuss the potential for targeting TAMs therapeutically either by altering their phenotype within the HCC microenvironment or by cell therapy approaches by taking advantage of their infiltrative properties from the circulation into tumour tissue.
Antifungal Chitosan Nanocomposites—A New Perspective for Extending Food Storage
Authors: Wrońska Natalia , Felczak Aleksandra , Niedziałkowska Katarzyna , Kędzierska Marta , Bryszewska Maria , Benzaouia Mohamed Amine , El Kadib Abdelkrim , Miłowska Katarzyna , Lisowska Katarzyna
Published: December 2024

Chitosan, a biopolymer derived from chitin, exhibits significant antifungal properties, making it a valuable compound for various applications in agriculture food preservation, and biomedicine. The present study aimed to assess the antifungal properties of chitosan-modified films using sol–gel derivatives (CS:ZnO) or graphene-filled chitosan, (CS:GO and CS:rGO) against two strains of fungi that are the most common cause of food spoilage: Aspergillus flavus ATCC 9643 and Penicillium expansum DSM 1282. The results indicate important differences in the antifungal activity of native chitosan films and zinc oxide-modified chitosan films. CS:ZnO nanocomposites (2:1 and 5:1) completely inhibited spore germination of the two tested fungal strains. Furthermore, a decrease in spore viability was observed after exposure to CS:Zn films. Significant differences in the permeability of cell envelopes were observed in the A. flavus. Moreover, the genotoxicity of the materials against two cell lines, human BJ fibroblasts and human KERTr keratinocytes, was investigated. Our studies showed that the tested nanocomposites did not exhibit genotoxicity towards human skin fibroblasts, and significant damage in the DNA of keratinocytes treated with CS:ZnO composites. Nanocomposites based on chitosan may help reduce synthetic fungicides and contribute to sustainable food production and food preservation practices.
An Improved RNA Extraction Protocol for Rye Grain Full-Length Transcriptome Sequencing
Authors: Jazowska Justyna , Przyborowski Mateusz , Wojciechowski Marek , Groszyk Jolanta
Published: December 2024

RNA quality and integrity are critical for many studies in plant molecular biology. However, extracting high-quality RNA from cereal grains is challenging due to the presence of polysaccharides, polyphenols, and other compounds that bind or coprecipitate with RNA particles. To address this, we introduced an initial purification step into the Tri Reagent Solution protocol, which effectively eliminated starch and other contaminants. The performance of this modified protocol was then compared with five other RNA extraction methods, including those based on Tri Reagent Solution and the Direct-zol RNA Miniprep Plus Kit. Introducing our method modification prior to homogenization with Tri Reagent Solution successfully yielded total RNA with both high quality (RIN values ranging from 9.50 to 9.70) and high efficiency, making it suitable for both mRNA extraction using the Dynabeads mRNA Purification Kit and library preparation for transcriptome sequencing by long-read methods, such as Oxford Nanopore Technologies. The protocol was successfully applied to total RNA extraction from rye grains at 14 and 21 days after pollination. This study demonstrates that improving the Tri Reagent Solution protocol through initial purification enables the extraction of high-quality RNA from rye grains.