bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) proliferation through targeting G6PD
Authors: Chanda Makamas , Anuntasomboon Pornchai , Ruangritchankul Komkrit , Cheepsunthorn Poonlarp , Cheepsunthorn Chalisa L.
Published: December 2023

Background

Mounting evidence has linked cancer metabolic reprogramming with altered redox homeostasis. The pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) is one of the key metabolism-related pathways that has been enhanced to promote cancer growth. The glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) of this pathway generates reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH), which is essential for controlling cellular redox homeostasis.

Objective

This research aimed to investigate the growth-promoting effects of G6PD in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

Clinical characteristics and G6PD expression levels in lung tissues of 64 patients diagnosed with lung cancer at the King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital (Bangkok, Thailand) during 2009-2014 were analyzed. G6PD activity in NSCLC cell lines, including NCI-H1975 and NCI-H292, was experimentally inhibited using DHEA and siG6PD to study cancer cell proliferation and migration.

Results

The positive expression of G6PD in NSCLC tissues was detected by immunohistochemical staining and was found to be associated with squamous cells. G6PD expression levels and activity also coincided with the proliferation rate of NSCLC cell lines. Suppression of G6PD-induced apoptosis in NSCLC cell lines by increasing Bax/Bcl-2 ratio expression. The addition of D-(-)-ribose, which is an end-product of the PPP, increased the survival of G6PD-deficient NSCLC cell lines.

Conclusion

Collectively, these findings demonstrated that G6PD might play an important role in the carcinogenesis of NSCLC. Inhibition of G6PD might provide a therapeutic strategy for the treatment of NSCLC.
How does abstract and concrete garbage classification signage influence waste sorting behavior?
Authors: Cao Gai , Cao Rong , Liu Peng
Published: December 2023

Despite the issuance of standardized garbage classification signage, the rate of garbage classification in China remains low. We conducted a pair of laboratory experiments to explore the cognitive processing differences between abstract (including recyclables, hazardous garbage, and food signs) and concrete (including paper, plastic, glass, metal, textiles, batteries, household chemicals, tubes, and food signs) classification signs. We tested a nudging strategy to enhance garbage classification behavior. In Experiment 1, we divided garbage classification signs into two conditions: an abstract condition (comprising abstract signs) and a concrete condition (comprising concrete signs). The Go/No Go task was used to simulate garbage classification behavior. Participants were instructed to press a key when the garbage stimulus matched the classification signs (Go condition) and to refrain from pressing the key when there was a mismatch (No Go condition). The results showed that responses under the concrete condition were expedited compared to those under the abstract condition. This suggests that concrete signage requires less cognitive exertion, thereby enhancing the efficiency of waste classification. In Experiment 2, we optimized the existing bin signage, which predominantly featured abstract signs (traditional condition), and transformed it into a bin signage that emphasized concrete classification signs. These concrete signs were strategically positioned on the upper part of the bins to draw attention (nudging condition). The results suggested that the nudging condition required fewer cognitive resources than the traditional condition, which in turn increased the efficiency of processing garbage classification. This study not only validates the effects of concreteness in garbage classification but also provides effective nudge strategies to complement existing garbage classification management policy tools in a realistic Chinese context.
Restudy of shoulder motion in the theropod dinosaur Mononykus olecranus (Alvarezsauridae)
Authors: Senter Philip J.
Published: December 2023

Background

Range of motion in the forelimb of the Upper Cretaceous theropod dinosaur Mononykus olecranus, a member of the family Alvarezsauridae, has previously been investigated. However, the method used to investigate range of motion at the shoulder in M. olecranus did not follow the standardized procedure used in subsequent studies. The latter procedure yields more reliable results, and its standardization provides that its results are directly comparable to the results of similar studies in other species. I therefore reinvestigated the range of motion at the shoulder in M. olecranus, using the latter procedure.

Methods

Casts of the left scapula and coracoid of M. olecranus were posed on a horizontal surface, supported from beneath with modeling clay, with the medial surface of the scapula facing toward the horizontal surface. A cast of the left humerus was posed at the limits of motion through the transverse and parasagittal planes. Photos of the poses in orthal views were superimposed and used to measure range of motion, which was measured as the angle between lines drawn down the long axis of the humerus in each position.

Results

Through the transverse plane, the humerus of M. olecranus could be elevated to a subhorizontal position and depressed to a subvertical position. It could move through the parasagittal plane from a subvertical position at full protraction to a position above the horizontal at full retraction. These results correct the previous mischaracterization of shoulder motion in M. olecranus as restricted to a small arc with the arms held in a permanent sprawl. The range of humeral motion in M. olecranus is much greater than that found by the previous method and allowed the animal to tuck its arms in at the sides, in addition to allowing them to sprawl so as to orient the palm downward. The wide range of humeral motion allowed M. olecranus to forage for insects by employing hook-and-pull digging at surfaces with a wider range of orientations than the previous study showed to be possible.
APRENDER A APRENDER
Authors: Macedo Eunice , Vidal dos Santos Régia , Carvalho Alexandra
Published: December 2023

Argumentando a favor de uma inclusão humanizante e de uma visão da neurodiversidade que incorpora todos os seres humanos, este artigo advoga uma práxis educativa amiga-das-pessoas-autistas, assente num pilar de justiça social e no desafio de aprender a aprender com essas pessoas. Neste artigo, retomamos registros resultantes de uma observação participante em uma escola de ensino básico portuguesa, para descrever seis momentos críticos e analisar sua potência humanizante. Assumindo uma abordagem qualitativa interpretativista, os referidos momentos foram descritos e as aprendizagens transformadoras inerentes analisadas. Ao longo da discussão e nas considerações finais, observou-se que uma práxis educativa atenta às diversidades neurológicas e de processamento sensorial é capaz de assegurar aprendizagens humanamente transformadoras.
ADAPTAÇÕES E ESTRATÉGIAS BASEADAS EM EVIDÊNCIAS PARA AUMENTAR A INTERAÇÃO E O ENGAJAMENTO DE ALUNOS COM TEA NAS AULAS DE EDUCAÇÃO FÍSICA
Authors: Oliveira Calleb Rangel de , Martins Juliana Dos Santos , Schmidt Carlo , Pimentel Höher Camargo Síglia
Published: December 2023

Este estudo buscou investigar a eficácia de uma intervenção pedagógica para maximizar o tempo de engajamento e a frequência das interações sociais de alunos com TEA nas aulas de Educação Física. Foi utilizado um delineamento de linha de bases múltiplas com três estudantes e seus respectivos professores. A intervenção consistiu em adaptações das aulas e a utilização de estratégias baseadas em evidências pelos professores. Os resultados demonstraram um aumento no tempo de engajamento dos participantes nas atividades e na frequência de interações com os colegas. Percebe-se a importância da utilização de estratégias empiricamente validadas que atendam às necessidades dos alunos com TEA nas aulas de Educação Física e possibilitem seu desenvolvimento e efetiva inclusão escolar.
THE DYNAMIC INTERPLAY BETWEEN STUDENTS AND STAFF IN ENHANCING INCLUSION IN HIGHER EDUCATION IN LATIN AMERICA
Authors: Clouder Lynn , Jimenez Susana Aurelia Preciado , Di Masi Diego , Sams Marie , Cabrera Teresita J. Villaseñor , Maldonado Miriam E. Jiménez , Naranjo Ana Verônica
Published: December 2023

This paper presents findings from the ENTENDER Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education (CBHE) project (funded by the European Union Commission) involving five Latin American (LA) universities in Argentina and Mexico and three European partner universities. The project aimed to raise awareness of neurodiversity, create processes and tools to identify neurodivergent students’ learning needs and promote teacher training to design and provide inclusive learning environments. A collaborative cocreation approach was implemented. All elements of the project were evaluated against a baseline via a needs analysis. We discuss the initial challenges, the gains, and the unexpected outcomes that have propelled neurodiversity to the top of the agenda in the partner institutions initiating a change in attitudes from a deficit model to a strengths-based focus.
AUTISMO: COMO O COMPREENDEMOS? UMA ANÁLISE TEMÁTICO-CATEGÓRICA EM PERIÓDICOS DE EDUCACÃO ESPECIAL
Authors: Junior Anastácio Sadzinski , Wuo Andrea Soares , Leal Daniela
Published: December 2023

Apesar de as definições sobre o autismo na educação caminharem lado a lado com o entendimento médico, há uma vontade crescente de serem estabelecidas novas concepções na busca por inseri-las sob a ótica do modelo social e da diferença, em contraposição ao modelo atual de déficit. Este artigo objetivou identificar como o autismo tem sido compreendido nas pesquisas científicas em Educação Especial no Brasil. Para tanto, utilizou-se do estado do conhecimento e da análise temático-categórica dos artigos encontrados sobre o tema, em publicações científicas na área de Educação Especial (Revista Educação Especial e Revista Brasileira da Educação Especial). Por meio da análise, observou-se que, de modo geral, a hegemonia do modelo médico prevalece nas produções científicas.
Utilization of Social Media by Input Dealers for Information Need in Agriculture
Authors: Roy Rakesh , Sarkar Victor
Published: December 2023

The study was carried out with an objective to assess the utilization of social media as an information source in agriculture by the input dealers. The study was conducted with randomly selected 80 respondents from Malda district. The study shows that extension services in agriculture was still the most preferred information sources for agricultural input dealers followed by social media. The increasing trend of using social media for agricultural information was very much encouraging. The study shows that social media platform such as WhatsApp was most preferred by the input dealers followed by YouTube and Facebook. Further, the study shows that the information searched on social media were highest on latest technologies available in agriculture followed by information on education and training and variety of seeds. The input dealers were considerable active in sharing of agricultural information in social media and considerable percentage of input dealers were having trust on social media for agricultural information need.
Exploring the Effects of Divorce on Children's Psychological and Physiological Wellbeing
Authors: Apata Olukayode Emmanuel , Falana Oluwakemi Elizabeth , Hanson Uyok , Oderhohwo Eseoghene , Oyewole Peter Oluwaseyi
Published: December 2023

This paper examines the multifaceted effects of divorce on children, focusing on their psychological and physiological well-being. It highlights the significant disruption divorce causes in family dynamics, leading to profound changes in children’s emotional states, behaviors, and academic performance. The paper notes a substantial body of research documenting the psychological consequences of divorce, such as increased anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues. However, it identifies a notable gap in studies concentrating on intervention and prevention strategies. Additionally, the physiological impacts of divorce, such as health problems and developmental challenges, are not as comprehensively studied. The paper advocates for qualitative research to delve into the personal experiences of affected children and suggests expanding the scope of research to larger and more diverse population samples. It highlights the need for developing comprehensive strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of divorce on children, emphasizing a holistic approach to supporting affected families. The paper aims to guide future research directions, focusing on both understanding and preventing the negative impacts of divorce on children's well-being.
Suspected Anthrax Outbreaks or Sudden Animal Deaths in Hyati Mundaragi Village in Koppal, Karnataka, India: A Farmer Prospective
Authors: Sagar N. , Suresh K. P. , Naveesh Y. B. , Jayashree A. , Hemadri D. , Patil S. S. , Sushma R. , Archana C. A.
Published: December 2023

Anthrax, caused by Bacillus anthracis, is a persistent global threat to both public health and livestock industries. This study investigates an outbreak of sheep anthrax in Hyati Mundaragi Village, Karnataka, India. The demographic and ecological characteristics of this region are pivotal factors influencing disease emergence, with varying outbreak years observed among sheep farmers. Socio-economic factors and Risk and Emergency Management Behaviour (REMB) were found to be critical determinants of anthrax incidence, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of the disease's spread. Sheep migration and proximity to water bodies, notably the Tungabhadra reservoir, facilitated spore transfer and contributed to the outbreak in this village. The study highlights the urgency of proactive measures, including comprehensive disease surveillance, vaccine accessibility, training initiatives for local veterinarians and farmers, and the integration of AI tools for early detection and rapid response.
Viability and Vigor of Annona squamosa, L. Seeds in Different Substrates
Authors: Nunes Helber Veras , Barros Daniella Inácio , Ribeiro Fred Wallison Gomes , Viana Amanda Nogueira , Amorim Luana Marques , Mattje Vanessa Mendes , Libório Ricardo Alencar , Costa Sergio José da , Oliveira Liomar Borges de , Veras Pillar Barros , Vale Kaio Cesar Lima , Milhomem Ricardo Moreira , Nunes Bruno Henrique di Napoli
Published: December 2023

The Annona squamosa belongs to the Annonaceae family and is native to Tropical Americas and the West Indies. Its fruit can be consumed fresh, but it is also used in various foods such as purees, ice creams, mousses, yogurts, and traditional juices. For this reason, its economic relevance in Brazil has been significant, driven by the growing demand in the consumer market. The production of quality seedlings depends on various factors, with substrate composition being of great importance. The germination of seeds, root initiation, and rooting are directly linked to the chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of the substrate. The experiment was conducted at the Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology of Tocantins, in the city of Gurupi - TO, between March 4, 2022, and August 22, 2022. Seeds of Annona squamosa were taken from the fruit itself and sown in the following substrates: Washed sand; Commercial substrate + rice husk + chicken manure; Black soil; Black soil + coconut shell powder + commercial substrate. The substrate black soil + coconut shell powder + commercial substrate provided higher viability and vigor values in Annona squamosa seeds.
Impact of Foliar Application of Nutrients on Economics of Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.)
Authors: Kushwah Nishita , Singh Dheerendra , Bhadauriya Jaideep Singh , Chauhan Aman Pratap Singh , Singh R. P.
Published: December 2023

The present experiment was laid out at research farm of R.A.K. College of Agriculture, Sehore (M.P.) during Kharif season of 2022. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with 8 treatments and each treatment replicated three times. The Blackgram (cv. Pratap -1) was sowing with a seed rate of 15 kg ha-1 and with a spacing of 30 cm x 10 cm. The recommended dose of chemical fertilizer viz. 20:40:20 kg ha-1 N: P2O5: K2O, respectively was applied to the crop. Results revealed that foliar spray application of nutrient shows significant effect on yield economics. Treatment T7 (2% Spray of DAP + 0.5% Spray of ZnSO4 at pre-flowering and pod initiation stage) found higher for yield and yield attributes i.e. grain yield (0.836 kg/plot and 7.86 q/ha respectively), straw yield (17.30q/ha), biological yield (25.16 q/ha), harvest index (31.21 %), gross return (₹ 62550 ha-1), net return ((₹ 36491 ha-1) and B:C ratio (2.40). While, minimum values found with T1 (Water spray at pre-flowering stage and pod initiation stage).
Impact of Characteristics of Board of Directors Towards Risk-Taking Level with Chinese Commercial Banks
Authors: Hsiao Chih-Yi , Yin Ou-Xiang
Published: December 2023

Based on the situation that the overall economy is facing a huge shock due to COVID-19, China's banking sector plays an extremely important role as a provider of funds in the social economy and risk management is even more important. Therefore, this paper uses the Chinese commercial banks as a research sample of 730 from 2017 to 2021 and explores the moderating role of three board structure characteristics, namely, the board size, the combination of chairman and president, and the proportion of independent directors, on the relationship between banks' operation risk include market risk, credit risk and liquidity risk and risk-taking level in empirical approach method. The research findings revealed that: 1. liquidity ratio and cost-to-income ratio have a significant negative effect on the risk-taking level of commercial banks. 2. Board size has a negative moderating effect on the relationship between liquidity ratio and risk-taking level, which means that a larger board size can help reduce the effect of liquidity ratio on the risk-taking level of commercial banks. 3. Board size has a negative moderating effect on the risk-taking level of commercial banks. 4. The separation of chairman and president has a positive moderating effect on the relationship between liquidity ratio and risk-taking level, which means that having a different chairman and president may increase the impact of poor liquidity ratio on the risk-taking level of commercial banks. However, the cross-section of the cost-of-income ratio and independent director ratio has no significant effect on the risk-taking level. This paper also makes recommendations based on the findings of the study.
Risk Factors for and Health Status of Socially Isolated Adults
Authors: Ramesh Tarun , Kadakia Kushal , Horvitz-Lennon Marcela , Breslau Joshua , Yu Hao
Published: January 2025

This cross-sectional study examines the risk factors associated with social isolation among US adults and the health status of those who report being socially isolated using national surveillance data.
Origin and In-Office Treatment of Retrograde Cricopharyngeus Dysfunction
Authors: Mailly Marie , Baudouin Robin , Thibault Claire , Hans Stephane , Lechien Jerome R.
Published: January 2025

Importance

Retrograde cricopharyngeus dysfunction (R-CPD) is an emerging disorder associated with disabling symptoms. The origin of R-CPD remains unknown.

Objective

To investigate the development of symptoms, diagnosis approach, and therapeutic outcomes of R-CPD in patients treated with in-office botulinum toxin injection (BTI) into the cricopharyngeus.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a case series including patients with R-CPD who were consecutively and prospectively recruited from April 2022 to May 2024 in an academic hospital. Semistructured interviews were conducted to collect and analyze data on each patient’s clinical history, potential causes or factors associated with R-CPD development, diagnostic approaches, and symptom presentation.

Intervention

Clinic-based (in-office) BTI into the cricopharyngeus.

Outcomes and Measures

Associations with laryngopharyngeal reflux disease, patients’ Reflux Symptom Score-12 (RSS-12), and BTI effectiveness, revisions, and complications were evaluated.

Results

The case series comprised 106 patients with R-CPD treated with BTI (52 females [49.1%] and 54 males [51.9%]). Their mean (SD) age at symptom onset was 13.6 (7.7) years, and at diagnosis, 30.4 (6.4) years. Sixty-eight patients (64.2%) had potential congenital R-CPD, according to the parents’ testimonies. A family history was reported in 18 of 62 cases (29.0%). In 105 cases (99.1%), patients made the diagnosis themselves despite medical consultations (n = 162), empirical treatments (n = 113), and additional examinations (n = 92). The cumulative success rate of BTI was 90.6% (96 of 106 patients). In 26 cases (24.5%), additional injections were administered to address the symptoms. Family history of R-CPD was a negative predictor of single-BTI success. Dysphagia was the primary adverse effect occurring after 89 of 126 BTIs (70.6%) and lasted a mean (SD) of 16.3 (12.0) days. In 10 cases, operating-room BTI was administered after primary in-office BTI.

Conclusions and Relevance

R-CPD is an emerging and poorly known disorder associated with high rates of ineffective consultations, additional examinations, and self-diagnosis by patients. In-office BTI was associated with a high rate of partial or total symptom relief and long-term effectiveness.
Enhancing Immunomodulation and Osseointegration of Bone Implants via Thrombin‐Activated Platelet‐Rich Plasma Self‐Assembly
Authors: Shi Xiaotong , Wang Zongliang , Bi Zhiguo , Liu Jianguo , Zhang Peibiao
Published: January 2025

Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) is characterized by elevated concentrations of growth factors that facilitate bone repair. Nonetheless, the effective integration of PRP with bone implants and the sustained release of its active constituents pose significant challenges. In this study, thrombin is grafted onto the surface of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) via an N,N'‐Disuccinimidyl Carbonate (DSC) linker and the retained enzymatic activity of thrombin enables the controlled activation of PRP self‐assembly, resulting in the formation of a functional bio‐gel layer. The optimal thrombin concentration to be 100 U/ mL−1 is determined, at which point both the grafting amount and enzymatic activity of thrombin reaches their peak, with no further increases observed at higher concentrations. PRP solutions with varying platelet enrichment ratios are subsequently activated on the thrombin‐grafted PEEK surface, yielding self‐assembled bio‐gels capable of sustained growth factor release for up to 16 days. The thrombin‐activated PRP bio‐gel on PEEK surface not only enhances in vitro cell adhesion, proliferation, osteogenic differentiation, vascularization and specific polarization of macrophages, but also effectively facilitates in vivo angiogenesis, immunomodulation and bone formation in a platelet dose‐dependent manner. Consequently, the thrombin‐activated PRP gel presents a promising strategy for the biological functionalization of PEEK implants in orthopedic applications.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells With Polydopamine‐Coated NaGdF4 Nanoparticles with Ca2+ Chelation Ability for Ischemic Stroke Therapy
Authors: Wu Shiman , Chu Xu , Lv Guanglei , Gao Jiahao , Huang Yuxin , Li Huiyan , Jiang Xingwu , Liu Yanyan , Zhang Jiawen , Fang Xiangming , Yao Zhenwei , Bu Wenbo
Published: January 2025

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transplantation is a promising therapeutic strategy for ischemic stroke. However, the survival of transplanted MSCs is often compromised by the excessive levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and calcium ions (Ca2+) in the ischemic microenvironment following blood flow occlusion. In this study, a protective strategy is developed using functional nanomaterials to escort and shield MSCs. Specifically, NaGdF4@PDA‐ALD nanoparticles (NPANs) are synthesized, featuring a NaGdF4 core coated with polydopamine (PDA) for ROS scavenging and further modified with alendronate sodium (ALD) for Ca2+ chelation. The internalization of NPANs by MSCs protected them from oxidative damage and calcium overload, thereby promoting their viability and functionality. Furthermore, NaGdF4 generated T1 signal enhancement, enabling in vivo tracking of MSCs via magnetic resonance imaging. The NPANs‐treated MSCs demonstrated improved survival and migration to the ischemic region, promoting blood flow restoration and angiogenesis. These findings confirm the feasibility of employing functional nanoparticles to augment MSCs‐based therapies, offering a promising strategy to improve their therapeutic efficacy in ischemic stroke treatment.
Vertical Memristive Crossbar Array for Multilayer Graph Embedding and Analysis
Authors: Han Janguk , Jang Yoon Ho , Moon Ji Won , Shim Sung Keun , Cheong Sunwoo , Lee Soo Hyung , Park Tae Won , Han Joon‐Kyu , Hwang Cheol Seong
Published: January 2025

Graph data structures effectively represent objects and their relationships, enabling the modeling of complex connections in various fields. Recent work demonstrate that metal at diagonal crossbar arrays (m‐CBA) can effectively represent planar graphs. However, they are unsuitable for representing multilayer graphs having multiple relationships across different layers. Using conventional software, embedding multilayer graphs in high‐dimensional Euclidean spaces introduces significant mathematical complexity and computational burden, often resulting in information loss. This study proposes a unique graph embedding (mapping) method utilizing a fabricated vertical m‐CBA (vm‐CBA), where a custom‐built measurement system thoroughly validated its functionality. This structure directly maps multilayer graphs into a 3D vm‐CBA, accurately representing inter‐layer and intra‐layer connections. The practical link prediction and information scores across various real‐world datasets demonstrated that vm‐CBA achieved enhanced accuracy compared to conventional embeddings, even with a significantly decreased number of operations.
Phenanthrenequinone‐Modified Conjugated Polymer Enabling Photocatalytic H2O2 Generation via Efficient O2− Conversion
Authors: Sun Xinyu , Yang Tingyu , Dong Yuming , Ji Rong , Zhao Hui , Zhang Jiawei , Zhu Yongfa
Published: January 2025

The photocatalytic O2 reduction reaction offers a promising approach to synthesizing H2O2. Nevertheless, the low conversion efficiency of O2− constrains the efficiency of photocatalytic H2O2 production. This is because O2 can readily obtain electrons to generate O2−, but it is challenging to reacquire electrons after generating O2−. Accordingly, this study proposes the improvement of the conversion efficiency of O2− through the directional enrichment of photogenerated charges at sites of O2− reduction and stabilization of O2−. This study introduces a phenanthrenequinone group with adjacent carbonyl groups as the O2− reduction reaction site. The directional enrichment of photogenerated charges at the O2− reduction site enhances the probability of O2− obtaining electrons. Concurrently, the special adsorption configuration enhances the adsorption, and stabilizes·O2− on the catalyst surface, accelerating the conversion of O2− to H2O2 and achieving an H2O2 generation rate of 3400 µmol g−1 h−1. This work presents an innovative tactic regarding the efficient reduction of O2− to H2O2, which informs the structural design of advanced photocatalytic systems for the production of H2O2.
Functional Analyses of SATB2 Variants Reveal Pathogenicity Mechanisms Linked With SATB2‐Associated Syndrome
Authors: Ukita Nao , Ogawa Takuya , Yamada Mamiko , Takeuchi Chisen , Kosaki Kenjiro , Moriyama Keiji
Published: January 2025

SATB2‐associated syndrome (SAS) is characterized by intellectual disability, neurodevelopmental disorders, cleft palate, and dental abnormalities. SAS is caused by variants in the special AT‐rich sequence‐binding protein 2 (SATB2), which encodes a transcription factor containing two CUT domains and a homeobox (HOX) domain. Here, we report the case of a 16‐year‐old male diagnosed with SAS using exome sequencing and investigate the functional consequences of previously reported SATB2 variants, including those in this case. The patient carried a heterozygous missense variant (c.1147G>C, p.A383P) in SATB2, which was predicted to be pathogenic in silico but was absent from public databases. Immunofluorescence assays demonstrated that SATB2 proteins with variants in the CUT2 domain predominantly localized to the cytoplasm. Functional analysis further revealed that wild‐type SATB2 increased the activity of the Msx1 promoter, which is involved in palatogenesis and tooth development, whereas variants in the CUT1 domain disrupted this transcriptional activation. These findings suggest that the nuclear localization signal of SATB2 resides in the CUT2 domain and that Msx1 promoter impairment owing to SATB2 variants may contribute to the pathogenesis of cleft palate and tooth agenesis in SAS. This research highlights a novel pathogenic variant and the functional implications for understanding SAS.
Supporting ‘Doing Development Differently’ Effectively: Analysing Attributes, Networks and Impacts of Donor‐Supported Pacific Development Coalitions
Authors: Craney Aidan , Chamberlain Dan , Roche Chris
Published: January 2025

Despite growing appreciation for the complexity of development and the need for adaptability, there remains a limited evidence base of how, where and why adaptive approaches to development improve development outcomes. This paper examines the organisational and political attributes of support provided to locally led development initiatives in the Pacific region supported by an Australian government development programme, as well as the extent to which these attributes were present in initiatives deemed by programme staff to be more or less successful. Findings include that positive outcomes are more likely to emerge from partners led by women working in politically stable environments. Rather than endorsing donors to support only such projects, we share a combination of findings to offer insights into how the impacts of development initiatives working in politically tricky settings may be understood holistically and with nuance and flexibility, leading to better project design and evaluation.
Ictal ipsilateral eye blinking and contralateral eye closure in temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Egashira Shuhei , Kobayashi Katsuya , Tatsuta Naohisa , Sanada Yuki , Kuzuya Akira , Ikeda Akio
Published: January 2025

Content available: Video.
An Inertia Correction Scheme for Hydrodynamic Lubrication Problems
Authors: Ozen Seyhan , Azeloglu C. Oktay
Published: January 2025

A new simplified numerical approach for accurately calculating the bearing pressure distribution in one‐dimensional hydrodynamic lubrication problems, particularly including convective fluid inertia and film discontinuities, is presented. The method proposes a simple inertia correction scheme using a non‐uniform finite difference method based on the Reynolds equation. Two possible approaches to estimating the pressure correction due to fluid inertia are discussed: the Bernoulli effect and the averaged inertia. The results obtained for various operating conditions, especially by employing the average fluid inertia method, are found to be almost identical to the full Navier–Stokes (CFD) results and are more generalized. The proposed method may provide extremely fast calculation with accuracy.
Anatomy of the Critically‐Endangered Anji Salamander (Hynobius amjiensis) Provides New Insights Into Morphological Evolution of Salamanders
Authors: Chen Cang‐Song , Jia Jia , Wang Xian‐Ting , Yang Jia , Gao Ke‐Qin
Published: January 2025

The Anji Salamander (Hynobius amjiensis) is a critically‐endangered amphibian endemic to the Tianmushan Mountain area in southeastern China. As most of its congeneric species in the ancestral salamander family Hynobiidae, the osteology of H. amjiensis has remained essentially unknown and has hampered efforts in understanding morphological evolutionary patterns of early salamanders. Here, we investigate the skeletal anatomy of H. amjiensis based on microcomputed tomography scans of post‐metamorphosed juvenile and adult specimens. Our results reveal Hynobiidae has more early‐tetrapod‐like plesiomorphic characters than expected, as H. amjiensis has a stapedial foramen in the middle ear and two centralia and a centrale‐radius contact in the limb. We demonstrate that Hynobius amjiensis is the first known living salamander species with a stapedial foramen whose absence was believed to unite salamanders and anurans, and hence opens major questions on the evolution of the middle ear in modern amphibians: if some salamanders and caecilians had a stapedial foramen inherited from their common ancestor, when and how many times was the foramen lost independently in modern amphibians, and how did this structural loss impact the phylogenetic evolution of salamander clades? Our findings of hyper‐ossified pectoral and pelvic girdles and loss of postminimus in the pes in H. amjiensis demonstrate that functional morphological features in hynobiids are potentially informative in phylogeny and ontogeny of early salamanders.
Reliable Methodology for Measuring SERS Enhancement Factor on Colloidal and Solid Substrates: A Practical Guide
Authors: Mercedi Anna , Cardoni Francesco , Toffanello Francesca , Reguera Javier , Meneghetti Moreno , Litti Lucio
Published: January 2025

This study presents a robust and practical methodology for quantifying the Surface‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) Enhancement Factor (EF) on both colloidal and solid substrates. SERS, a powerful technique for enhancing the Raman signals of analytes near plasmonic surfaces, has found extensive applications in fields such as biomedicine and materials science. However, inconsistencies in EF measurement methods have hindered cross‐comparisons between different SERS substrates. This work addresses these challenges by providing a standardized protocol for EF determination for a wide variety of substrates composed of gold and silver nanoparticles, as well as nanostructured surfaces. Using p‐mercaptobenzoic acid (p‐MBA) as a model non‐resonant probe, the approach accounts for key variables including substrate geometry, sampling volume, and substrate inhomogeneity. This reliable and reproducible method offers a practical framework for researchers to assess the performance of SERS substrates with simple instruments and techniques that should be easily available in a Raman spectroscopy laboratory.
A Bibliometric Review of Digitalization in Tourism Supply Chains in the Context of Industry 4.0
Authors: Luu Nghia Thi Minh , Pham Trang Huong , Siriwardana Anushka , Nguyen Lam Canh , Tran Duy Le Anh
Published: January 2025

The tourism industry has experienced significant turbulence over the past two decades, characterized by dramatic advancements and formidable challenges. One notable development has been the application of Industry 4.0 technologies to various areas of the tourism supply chain. This review employs the bibliometric method to identify the research evolution of technologies in the tourism supply chain domains. The findings based on research clusters and streams indicate that, before Industry 4.0, literature predominantly focused on fundamental technologies such as IT, ICT, Internet, and RFID. After its introduction in 2011, research began incorporating some forms of advanced technologies, albeit in limited ways. However, following the outbreak of COVID‐19, the application of Industry 4.0 technologies has become more widespread, emerging as a primary research theme. Throughout the period, sustainability has been a consistent research interest, with the belief that technological applications could enhance business performance and customer experience, and mitigate social and environmental impacts. A discussion of the future research directions in the surveyed domain follows the research trend analysis.
Association Analysis of Rare CNTN5 Variants With Autism Spectrum Disorder in a Japanese Population
Authors: Hadi Abdul Fuad , Arta Reza K. , Kushima Itaru , Egawa Jun , Watanabe Yuichiro , Ozaki Norio , Someya Toshiyuki
Published: January 2025

Background

Contactin‐5 (CNTN5), a neural adhesion molecule involved in synaptogenesis and synaptic maturation in the auditory pathway, has been associated with the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), particularly hyperacusis. To investigate the role of rare CNTN5 variants in ASD susceptibility, we performed resequencing and association analysis in a Japanese population.

Methods

We resequenced the CNTN5 coding regions in 302 patients with ASD and prioritized rare putatively damaging variants. The prioritized variants were then genotyped in 313 patients with ASD and 1065 controls. Subsequently, we conducted an association study of selected variants with ASD in 614 patients with ASD and 61 057 controls. Clinical data were reviewed for patients carrying prioritized variants.

Results

Through resequencing, we prioritized three rare putatively damaging missense variants (W69G, I227L, and L1000S) in patients with ASD. Although we found a nominally significant association between the I227L variant and ASD, it did not remain significant after post hoc correction. Hyperacusis was found in three out of nine patients carrying prioritized variants.

Conclusion

This study does not provide evidence for the contribution of rare CNTN5 variants to the genetic etiology of ASD in the Japanese population.
Effects of Psychotropic Medications Taken by Pregnant Women on Newborn Medical Condition and Lactation Method
Authors: Yoshino Yuta , Yagi Toru , Tsubouchi Koichi , Takaishi Yusuke , Ozaki Yuki , Iga Jun‐ichi , Matsubara Keiichi , Matsubara Yuko , Uchikura Yuka , Sugiyama Takashi , Ueno Shu‐ichi
Published: January 2025

Background

Maternal psychiatric condition during the perinatal period is relevant to children's cognitive development and mental health. Psychotropic medications are necessary to maintain the mental health of pregnant women with psychiatric disorders, but they are often avoided due to concerns about adverse effects, such as congenital malformations and abnormal neurodevelopment. A retrospective study of pregnant women with psychiatric disorders using psychotropic medications was performed to clarify maternal and child demographic data and to investigate whether psychotropic medications affected the Apgar score and the decision to breastfeed.

Methods

Data of pregnant women with psychiatric disorders who were referred from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology to the Department of Neuropsychiatry at Ehime University Hospital from January 2014 to December 2022 were collected retrospectively. Pearson's chi‐squared test and multiple regression analysis were used for statistical analyses.

Results

A total of 226 women were included; 194 gave birth at our hospital, of whom 79 (40.7%) were taking psychotropic drugs at the time of delivery. None of the children had malformations. There was no relationship between the use of psychotropic medications and the choice to breastfeed. Multiple regression analysis showed that only the gestational weeks at birth were significantly associated with birth weight (p < 0.001) and Apgar score (1 min: p = 0.030; 5 min: p = 0.044).

Conclusions

The use of psychotropic medications during the perinatal period appears safe and beneficial for both pregnant women with psychiatric disorders and their children, and breastfeeding should be considered even if the mother continues to take the medication. To clarify these points, prospective studies using large samples from several countries are needed.
Exploring the Adsorption Features of Furan and 1,n‐Dioxane as Environmental Toxins on Two‐Dimensional RuC Nanosheet: A DFT Study
Authors: Mahmoud Amna H. M. , Aziz Muhrail E. S. , Rabee Abdallah I. M. , El‐Tayeb Mohamed A. , Mekhemer Gamal A. H. , Shoeib Tamer , Ibrahim Mahmoud A. A.
Published: January 2025

The potential of the two‐dimensional ruthenium carbide (RuC) nanosheet to detect highly toxic environmental compounds – namely, Furan (Fur) and 1,n‐Dioxane (1,n‐Diox) – was investigated utilizing the density functional theory (DFT) approach. The adsorption features of the Fur and 1,n‐Diox molecules on the RuC nanosheet were evaluated in parallel and vertical configurations. From energetic manifestations, Fur and 1,n‐Diox molecules preferred to be adsorbed in the parallel configuration rather than the vertical one on the RuC nanosheet with negative Eads values of −27.80 and −9.30 kcal/mol, respectively, for Fur⋅⋅⋅RuC complexes. Bader charge findings demonstrated an electron‐accepting property for the Fur and 1,n‐Diox molecules during the adsorption process over the RuC nanosheet, as indicated by positive Qt values. From the FMO findings, the EHOMO and ELUMO values of Fur/1,n‐Diox molecules, and the pure RuC nanosheet varied considerably after the adsorption process in both configurations. The band structure and TDOS/PDOS plots of Fur/1,n‐Diox⋅⋅⋅RuC complexes showed new bands and peaks for the RuC nanosheet after the adsorption process, proving the capability of the RuC nanosheet to detect the investigated small molecules. The outcomes of the current work can serve as a foundation for using the RuC nanosheets to detect highly toxic small molecules.
Improved starch adhesives for packaging and wood products
Authors: Lin Wei‐Shu , Catchmark Jeffrey M.
Published: January 2025

This study addresses the growing demand for sustainable and non‐toxic adhesives by developing a polysaccharide polyelectrolyte complex (PPC) adhesive using starch polyelectrolytes. A turbidity test was used to formulate the starch PPC, which demonstrated significant improvements in water and grease resistance through the complexation of anionic and cationic starches, with water resistance increasing by 93.2%. Applying 10 g/m2 of starch PPC provided adequate adhesion strength for paper substrates and achieved a joint strength of approximately 4.5 MPa on wood. However, no significant differences were observed between starch PPC and neat starch for wood adhesion, highlighting inadequate bonding. While starch PPC showed enhanced water resistance, bonded wood samples had superior wet strength with cationic starch due to ionic pairing between the starch and wood. Contact angle measurements revealed lower wettability of starch PPC on wood, indicating weaker surface attachment and adhesion strength. These results emphasize the need for further optimization of starch‐based adhesives to improve their performance while maintaining environmental sustainability.

Highlights

UV–Vis light transmittance optimizes starch‐based PPC composition.

Shear‐thickening behavior was detected in starch both before and after complexation.

Starch PPC showed a 93.2% improvement in water resistance versus neat starch

Starch PPC demonstrates adequate strength as an effective paper adhesive.

Starch PPC adhesive achieved a shear strength of 4.5 MPa with wood substrates.
Computational and experimental mapping of the allosteric network of two manganese ABC transporters
Authors: Duman Ozge , Kuznetsova Anastasiya , Levanon Nurit Livnat , Grupper Moti , Ersoy Akarun Ayca , Acar Burcin , Kessel Amit , Ben‐Tal Nir , Lewinson Oded , Haliloglu Turkan
Published: January 2025

Transition metals (e.g., Fe2/3+, Zn2+, Mn2+) are essential enzymatic cofactors in all organisms. Their environmental scarcity led to the evolution of high‐affinity uptake systems. Our research focuses on two bacterial manganese ABC importers, Streptococcus pneumoniae PsaBC and Bacillus anthracis MntBC, both critical for virulence. Both importers share a similar homodimeric structure, where each protomer comprises a transmembrane domain (TMD) linked to a cytoplasmic nucleotide‐binding domain (NBD). Due to their size and slow turnover rates, the utility of conventional molecular simulation approaches to reveal functional dynamics is limited. Thus, we employed a novel, computationally efficient method integrating Gaussian Network Models (GNM) with information theory Transfer Entropy (TE) calculations. Our calculations are in remarkable agreement with previous functional studies. Furthermore, based on the calculations, we generated 10 point‐mutations and experimentally tested their effects, finding excellent concordance between computational predictions and experimental results. We identified “allosteric hotspots” in both transporters, in the transmembrane translocation pathway, at the coupling helices linking the TMDs and NBDs, and in the ATP binding sites. In both PsaBC and MntBC, we observed bi‐directional information flow between the two TMDs, with minimal allosteric transmission to the NBDs. Conversely, the NBDs exhibited almost no NBD‐NBD allosteric crosstalk but showed pronounced information flow from the NBD of one protomer towards the TMD of the other protomer. This unique allosteric “footprint” distinguishes ABC importers of transition metals from other members of the ABC transporter superfamily establishing them as a distinct functional class. This study offers the first comprehensive insight into the conformational dynamics of these vital virulence determinants, providing potential avenues for developing urgently needed novel antibacterial agents.
From Saying to Communicating: The Generic Development of Classroom Academic Presentations by Chinese First‐Year College Students
Authors: Ma Junming , Liu Chengyu
Published: January 2025

Classroom academic presentation (CAP) has been perceived as an important academic genre integral to college learners' academic success. However, the schematic structure of CAP and learners' acquisition of it remain unclear. In this study, we identified its schematic structure with the method of metagenres and investigated L2 learners' generic progression in employing the genre by examining the generic structures of 39 CAPs delivered by a cohort of Chinese undergraduate learners over a semester. The results show that the learners manifest an unequal development in the CAP generic structure, and they weave the interpersonal meaning inappropriately later into the structure than the ideational one. Our findings offer a reference model for the schematic structure of CAP, help identify obstacles to learning the genre, and have important implications for teaching.
The Intersection of Gender and National Identity in History Textbooks in Kazakhstan
Authors: Bekzhanova Zhazira , Durrani Naureen
Published: January 2025

The history curriculum and textbooks are central to nation-building projects, as school history aims to transmit historical knowledge and create a shared desired national identity particularly in newer nation-states. Although the nation is imagined as a community of equals, national identity is constructed through power relations since it structures the representations of the nation around conceptions of masculinityand femininity. The analysis of school history textbooks is important, as they are a key cultural resource that pupils use to learn about “doing gender” and to develop their national consciousness. This chapter analyzes the construction of gender and national identities in the history textbooks, a compulsory subject taught across all secondary schools. Data sources include seven textbooks recommended by Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Education and Science, covering 7th to 11th grades used in Kazakh medium schools. The history textbooks for 9th and 11th grades consist of two volumes each. The study employs quantitative and qualitative methods to analyze the interrelated constructs of gender as category, construction, and deconstruction. The findings reveal four key observations: the prevalence of male dominance and the invisibility of female icons in national historiography, the perpetuation of hegemonic masculinities, the normalization of idealized femininities, and instances of gender transgression.