bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The outpost against cancer: universal cancer only markers
Authors: Qian Chengchen , Zou Xiaolong , Li Wei , Li Yinshan , Yu Wenqiang
Published: November 2023

Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide. Early detection of cancer can lower the mortality of all types of cancer; however, effective early-detection biomarkers are lacking for most types of cancers. DNA methylation has always been a major target of interest because DNA methylation usually occurs before other detectable genetic changes. While investigating the common features of cancer using a novel guide positioning sequencing for DNA methylation, a series of universal cancer only markers (UCOMs) have emerged as strong candidates for effective and accurate early detection of cancer. While the clinical value of current cancer biomarkers is diminished by low sensitivity and/or low specificity, the unique characteristics of UCOMs ensure clinically meaningful results. Validation of the clinical potential of UCOMs in lung, cervical, endometrial, and urothelial cancers further supports the application of UCOMs in multiple cancer types and various clinical scenarios. In fact, the applications of UCOMs are currently under active investigation with further evaluation in the early detection of cancer, auxiliary diagnosis, treatment efficacy, and recurrence monitoring. The molecular mechanisms by which UCOMs detect cancers are the next important topics to be investigated. The application of UCOMs in real-world scenarios also requires implementation and refinement.
¿Existe la forma correcta de dar clases? Estilos de enseñanza y enseñanza superior en Cuauhtémoc
Authors: Gonzalez Torres Karla Ivonne , Ordoñez Caraveo Guadalupe
Published: November 2023

En la práctica docente una de las principales interrogantes es la búsqueda de la “formula secreta” o la “poción mágica” para que todos nuestros alumnos aprendan, y que el trabajo frente a grupo sea el mas satisfactorio. El presente texto da cuenta de un ejercicio de búsqueda de respuesta a ese cuestionamiento en el nivel superior: cuáles son los elementos deseables en el perfil del maestro y cuáles actividades son más efectivas para alcanzar los aprendizajes esperados. La pregunta de investigación se orientó a identificar si ciertas estrategias planteadas por el docente en el contexto del aula de educación superior (en un programa de posgrado de la Universidad Autónoma de Ciudad Juárez) son determinantes para que el alumno aprenda o no. Los instrumentos de investigación se aplicaron en dos grupos de estudiantes con diferentes maestros, pero impartiendo la misma asignatura. Uno de ellos se identificó como grupo de control (dado que el docente recibió una colección de estrategias didácticas curadas conforme el Modelo Educativo UACJ 2020) y el otro como grupo base (en el que el docente diseñó y aplicó sus propias estrategias sin contar con el insumo mencionado. Los resultados se orientan hacia la conclusión de que la diversidad en las actividades que los maestros realizan apoya y facilita la construcción de aprendizajes significativos entre los estudiantes. Por ello se concluye que no se puede generar un estilo único de enseñar.
La Configuración Profesional del Docente en la Época Contemporánea
Authors: Guzmán Marín Francisco , Torres Franco Carmen Paulina , Negrete Estrada Fidel , Avalos Reyes Erik , Lemus Jiménez Alicia
Published: November 2023

En el pasado, la educación tenía el propósito fundamental de introducir a los niños y jóvenes en las tradiciones socio-culturales y en los proceso de construcción identitaria de la comunidad a que pertenecen, por su parte, en la época moderna, el fenómeno educativo formal tiene un carácter eminentemente socio-evangelizador en los principales valores político-culturales de la civilización occidental; sobre todo en las sociedades periféricas, a las cuales se les impone copias extra-lógicas de tales modos de ser, vivir, pensar y actuar. En este contexto socio-histórico se configura la imagen moderna del profesor-misionero, del maestro-apóstol, cuya función principal es evangelizar a las nuevas generaciones en los universales valores del proyecto moderno de civilización, a través del perfeccionamiento humano en Kant (2003), la socialización en Durkheim (2013), la modelización funcional en Vasconcelos (2002), la construcción de las estructuras onto-cognitivas en Piaget (2018) y el disciplinamiento societal en Foucault (2002).
AN ESSENTIAL TOOL TO BE OPTIMIZED: SYNDROMIC MANAGEMENT OF VAGINAL DISCHARGE IN HAITI
Authors: Sturgis Morgan , Buckman Victoria , Diawara Samiya , St. Paul Fiquita , Adrien Marlene , Zhao Xixi , Mehta Supriya , Towbin Jennifer , Crane Stephanie
Published: November 2023

Background: Haiti, like many low-income countries in crisis, has limited resources for etiologic diagnosis of vaginal discharge. As such, we sought to characterize variability in diagnoses of women presenting with vaginal discharge syndrome, with the goal to improve standardization of syndromic management. Materials and Methods: Participants aged 18 years and older endorsing vaginitis, or dysuria were recruited at Jerusalem Clinic over two, one-week periods in April 2018 and July 2019. We calculated Spearman rank correlations among history, exam findings, and diagnoses based on clinical presentation, to understand presentation groupings and their management. Results: Among 98 women, median age was 33.5 years, and most frequent symptoms were: vaginal discharge (97%), vaginal itch (73%), and/or suprapubic pain (68%). Most common physical exam findings were vaginal discharge (86%), suprapubic/lower quadrant tenderness (29%), cervical motion tenderness (24%), and cervical erythema (20%). Most symptoms and physical exam findings were weakly correlated with each other. Nearly one-third (31%) were diagnosed with normal physiologic vaginal discharge or no diagnosis, followed by Bacterial vaginosis (31%), vulvovaginal candidiasis (15%), cervicitis/PID (13%), and STI (7%). No reported symptoms strongly differentiated diagnostic categories. Diagnoses varied considerably by exam findings. Conclusions: The weak correlations between symptoms, exam findings, and diagnoses could represent variability in assessment. In the absence of reliable and accessible laboratory testing, the importance of standardizing syndromic management becomes increasingly relevant. Results from our study support the utility of speculum examination and more standardized documentation of physical exam findings. Next steps include the development of local algorithms to promote standardization of treatment of vaginal discharge syndrome.
Postsurgical Pyoderma Gangrenosum After Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Authors: Varas-Rodríguez Emil , Cedeño Francis , Gonzalez-Diaz Gabriel , Vivas Joshua , Salgueiro Ariana , Dávila Katherine , Nevarez Pomales Oscar , Duyos Oscar
Published: November 2023

Case:

A 61-year-old woman with lower back and radicular leg pain underwent minimally invasive spinal fusion at L5-S1. By postoperative day 6, she exhibited erythema, wound dehiscence, and necrotic changes. Although a necrotizing infection was initially suspected, multiple debridements and antibiotic therapy failed to improve her condition. The patient was eventually diagnosed with pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) and was managed with immunosuppressants and extended wound care.

Conclusion:

PG is a rare dermatosis that is often misdiagnosed, leading to inappropriate treatment, debridements, and additional complications. Prompt identification and multidisciplinary collaboration are key to preventing unnecessary interventions and achieving the best outcomes.
Discover ERDC 101 and 201 training modules user’s guide
Authors: Clement Michael , Broderick Johnathan , Garton Byron , Pan Jack
Published: November 2023

Discover ERDC is a web-based tool that functions as a knowledge management hub by enabling employees of the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) to access valuable resources such as detailed employee profiles, organizational details, and links to other knowledge stores. This document covers the update of the ERDC 101 and 201 video player systems, the addition of a training component to those modules, and the integration of the systems into Discover ERDC. The updated video systems contain a collection of onboarding video presentations that give new employees critical information about their careers at ERDC. In addition, Discover ERDC 101 and 201 provide progress-tracking mechanics for asynchronous learning, as well as the ability to certify that employees have completed the training modules. This document serves as a user guide for these tools, providing an overview of the content and functionality.
Total water level controls on the trajectory of dune toe retreat
Authors: Conlin Matthew , Cohn Nicholas , Adams Peter
Published: November 2023

This study examines the trajectory (slope) of coastal foredune toe retreat in response to nine storm events that impacted the Outer Banks, North Carolina, USA. High resolution, three-dimensional, repeat mobile terrestrial lidar observations over a four kilometer stretch of coast were used to assess spatiotemporal beach and dune evolution at the storm timescale. Consistent with existing field observations from other sandy coastlines, an upward toe retreat was observed for most instances of dune retreat in the Outer Banks. However, these new topographic data indicate that the retreat can proceed steeply downward when the maximum total water level (TWL) defined by the 2% runup exceedance level is not high enough, for long enough, to erode the dune face. Non-linear relationships were found between the dune toe retreat trajectory as well as both the magnitude and duration of TWL above the dune toe, where instances of upward- and downward-directed retreat are best differentiated using the 7% runup exceedance level, rather than the commonly used 2% level. This physically justified non-linear relationship is shown to be consistent with observations from other studies, and could be a more effective parameterization for the retreat trajectory than those currently implemented in wave-impact dune erosion models.
Delirium current practice among Intensive Care Units Doctors, Khartoum
Authors: El-Raheem Ghada Omer Hamad Abd , Hamid Sheema Hamid Seidna , Abdallah Mudawi Mohammed Ahmed
Published: November 2023

Delirium is a brain dysfunction that is characterized by attention and cognition disturbances in a fluctuating pattern. International guidelines recommend daily screening of delirium. The Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU) and the Intensive Care Delirium Screening Checklist (ICDSC) were the most commonly used for delirium assessment. The reasons why this study was developed were to identify the barriers and gaps in knowledge and practice. Multi-center Hospital-based Cross-Sectional study was developed. Multistage sampling technique was used. 72 ICU doctors were randomly selected. Statistical analysis was performed through chi-square test to determine association among variables. It was considered significant when p ≤ 0.05. More than 70% of doctors were ≤ 30 years and females. 69.4% had < 1year experience. 94.4% worked in medical ICUs. Less than 20% of the doctors used delirium assessment tools with a statistically significant difference based on experience (p=0.012). 13.9% had not assessed delirium regularly. Non-pharmacological management was applied by 76.4% of the doctors, communication with patients was the most frequent (75%). Haloperidol was the most used agent (83.3%). 40.3% of doctors had not stopped delirium medications on ICU discharge. Regular assessment of delirium was applied. Yet, the use of validated assessment tools was not common. Non-pharmacological management of delirium is important which is mostly done. Our doctors prescribed anti-psychotics for treatment of both forms of delirium and almost half of them did not stop medications on ICU discharge. Medication reconciliation and contact with the next in-charge of patients is important.
The Impact of Oil Refinery Exposure on Lung Cancer in Homs, Syria: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Daas Mahmoud , Bakir Hesham , ALShawaf Ahmad Zahi
Published: November 2023

As the global burden of lung cancer continues to increase, we cannot ignore the impact of environmental factors on its incidence. This retrospective cohort study aimed to shed light on the impact of an oil refinery on lung cancer incidence in the city of Homs, Syria, and to highlight the need for further research in this area. The investigation contrasted the occurrence of lung cancer in Homs, where an oil refinery has been a reason for anxiety because of the release of toxic gases, and Hama, the nearby city with no such air pollution. The results showed a higher incidence of lung cancer in Homs, with a relative risk of 2.21, suggesting a potential association between exposure to refinery gases and lung cancer. Lung cancer rates were higher among males than females in both cities, according to the study. This study underscores the importance of environmental monitoring and public health measures to mitigate the impact of air pollution on human health.
Mapping the Pandemic: A Review of GIS-based Spatial Modeling of COVID-19
Authors: Aboalyem Mustafa Shebani , Ismail Mohd Tahir
Published: November 2023

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), COVID-19 has caused more than 6.5 million deaths, while over 600 million people are infected. With regard to the tools and techniques of disease analysis, spatial analysis is increasingly being used to analyze the impact of COVID-19. The present review offers an assessment of research that used regional data systems to study the COVID-19 epidemic published between 2020 and 2022. The research focuses on: categories of the area, authors, methods, and procedures used by the authors and the results of their findings. This input will enable the contrast of different spatial models used for regional data systems with COVID-19. Our outcomes showed increased use of geographically weighted regression and Moran I spatial statistical tools applied to better spatial and time-based gauges. We have also found an increase in the use of local models compared to other spatial statistics models/methods.
Population-based Evidence for the Use of Serum Neurofilaments as Individual Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Witzel Simon , Huss André , Nagel Gabriele , Rosenbohm Angela , Rothenbacher Dietrich , Peter Raphael , Baezner Hansjörg , Boertlein Axel , Dempewolf Silke , Schabet Martin , Hecht Martin , Kohler Andreas , Opherk Christian , Naegele Andrea , Sommer Norbert , Lindner Alfred , Alexudis Christoforos , Bachhuber Franziska , Halbgebauer Steffen , Brenner David , Ruf Wolfgang , Weiland Ulrike , Mayer Benjamin , Schuster Joachim , Dorst Johannes , Tumani Hayrettin , Ludolph Albert
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVE
Neurofilament light (NfL) and phosphorylated heavy chains (pNfH), established as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in hospital-based amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) cohorts, are now surrogate markers in clinical trials. This study extends their evaluation to a population level, with the aim of advancing their full establishment and assessing the transferability of biomarker findings from controlled cohorts to real‑world ALS populations.
METHODS
We measured serum NfL and pNfH levels in all ALS patients (n=790) and general population controls (n=570) with available baseline samples participating in the epidemiological ALS Registry Swabia, providing platform-specific (ELLATM) reference data and Z-scores for controls, as well as reference data, disease-specific Z-scores and longitudinal data in ALS. We evaluated the diagnostic and prognostic utility of neurofilaments and quantified the impact of ALS-related factors and non-ALS confounders.
RESULTS
Neurofilaments showed high diagnostic and prognostic utility at the population level, with NfL superior to pNfH. The novel concept of a population-based ALS Z‑score significantly improved the prognostic utility compared to absolute raw values. Both biomarkers increased more strongly with age in controls than in ALS, and age adjustment improved diagnostic accuracy. Our data show that disease progression rates, ALS phenotype, BMI and renal function need to be considered when interpreting neurofilament levels; longitudinal neurofilament levels were generally stable in individual patients, especially when adjusted for age and baseline levels.
INTERPRETATION
Population-based assessment enhances the utility of particularly serum NfL as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in ALS and improves the translation of findings from controlled cohorts to real-world populations.
Combining episodic and semantic memory: a brain-inspired approach for video captioning
Authors: Yao Xiao , Yuan Zhaohui , Gu Min
Published: November 2023

Traditional video captioning algorithms mainly rely on detecting objects in the video, realizing the simulation of episodic memory. However, these methods neglect the discussion of the implicit relation between objects, lacking the simulation of semantic memory. In this paper, we discuss the mechanisms of episodic and semantic memory and their relations in the human brain, and a semantic memory branch is added. By using a semantic graph linking to an external knowledge base, the interaction mechanism between episodic and semantic memory is modeled to enhance and inhibit the relations between the semantics of the learned video. We evaluate the effectiveness of our method on public benchmarks (Microsoft Research Video Description Corpus (MSVD) and Microsoft Research Video to Text (MSRVTT)). Extensive experiments demonstrate that our model outperforms general state-of-the-art methods and effectively improves the effect of content understanding in videos.
In situ expression of TNF-α and IL-10 in human dermatophytosis lesions due to Trichophyton rubrum
Authors: Reis Ana Paula Carvalho , Correia Franciele Fernandes , Celestrino Giovanna Azevedo , Pagliari Carla , Criado Paulo Ricardo , Lalwani Pritesh Jaychand , Benard Gil , STAFOCKER MARIA DA GLÓRIA SOUSA , Sousa Maria Gloria Teixeira
Published: November 2023

Dermatophytosis is a very common superficial mycosis, but there are few studies about the human immune response to dermatophytes. We aim to analyze the in situ expression of TNF-α and IL-10 in human dermatophytosis. Expression of TNF-α and IL-10 were evaluated in skin samples from 10 patients with dermatophytosis and 12 healthy subjects using an immunohistochemistry assay. TNF-α and IL-10 were significantly elevated in lesions from patients with dermatophytosis compared to healthy controls. These data illustrate the balance of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines suggesting Trichophyton rubrum infection could control the local immune response.
Feasibility of blinding spinal manual therapy interventions among participants and outcome assessors: protocol for a blinding feasibility trial
Authors: Laguna Javier Muñoz , Kurmann Astrid , Hofstetter Léonie , Nyantakyi Emanuela , Clack Lauren , Bang Heejung , Foster Nadine E. , Braun Julia , Puhan Milo A. , Farshad Mazda , Hincapié Cesar A
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Blinding is a methodologically important aspect in randomised controlled trials, yet frequently overlooked in trials of spinal manual therapy interventions for back pain. To help inform the blinding methods of a future, double-sham-controlled trial comparing spinal manual therapy and nerve root injection for sciatica, we set four objectives: (1) to assess the feasibility of blinding participants, randomly allocated to an active or sham-control spinal manual therapy intervention protocol, (2) to assess the feasibility of blinding outcome assessors within the trial, (3) to explore the influence of spinal manual therapy experience and low back pain on blinding, and (4) to explore factors contributing to perceptions about intervention assignment among participants and outcome assessors. Methods and analysis: Two-parallel-group, single-centre, sham-controlled, methodological blinding feasibility randomised trial. We will recruit between 60 and 100 adults with or without back pain and with or without experience of spinal manual therapy from Zurich, Switzerland. Participants will be randomised to either an active spinal manual therapy, or a sham-control spinal manual therapy protocol—both interventions delivered over two study visits, one to two weeks apart. The primary outcome is participant blinding using the Bang blinding index within each intervention arm immediately after each of the two study visits. Secondary outcomes are participant study-level blinding using the James blinding index, outcome assessor blinding (Bang and James blinding indices), self-reported factors influencing perceived intervention assignment among participants and outcome assessors, and participant-reported credibility and expectancy of study interventions. Other outcomes—included to mask the study objective from participants—include lumbar spine range of motion, self-rated general health, satisfaction with care, back flexibility, pain intensity and function. Treating clinician outcomes include intervention delivery fidelity and self-rated quality of intervention delivery. Ethics and dissemination: The independent ethics commission of Canton Zurich granted ethical approval for this study (KEK 2023 − 00381). Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants. Findings will be disseminated in scientific conferences and a peer-reviewed publication and inform the blinding component of a future randomised controlled trial comparing spinal manual therapy and nerve root injection for sciatica—the SALuBRITY trial. Trial registration number: NCT05778396
Comparison of efficacy and safety of first-line treatment options for unresectable stage III non-small cell lung cancer: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Zhao Luqing , Zhao Zhiting , Yan Xiaoqi , Wu Fei , Sun Ning , Guo Renhong , Hu Xiao , Feng Jifeng , Yu Shaorong
Published: November 2023

Background:Based on PACIFIC trail, durvalumab as consolidation therapy following concurrent chemoradiotherapy (cCRT) has been a new standard treatment for unresectable stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In clinical applications, there are heterogeneous adjustments or novel strategies following specialized discussions in experienced multidisciplinary teams. This study retrospectively compared the efficacy and safety of different first-line treatments for unresectable stage III NSCLC.
Methods:We retrospectively analyzed 397 patients who received first-line treatment for unresectable stage III NSCLC. Comparisons and statistical analyses of treatment were made in terms of efficacy and safety. Adverse events and responses were assessed using CTCAE v5.0 and RECIST v1.1. The progression-free survival (PFS) wasestimated using the Kaplan-Meier method or Cox survival regression model and compared using the log-rank test.
Results:In wild type driver genes group, the objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR) and median PFS (mPFS) were prolonged in the radiotherapy group than in the non-radiotherapy group (ORR: 50.94% vs. 30.06%, p＜0.001; DCR: 98.11% vs. 80.37%, p＜0.001; mPFS: 21.00 vs. 8.20 months, p＜0.001). The incidence of pneumonia at any grade in the radiotherapy group was higher than that in the non-radiotherapy group (9.43% vs. 2.45%, p=0.008). In the radiotherapy group, the chemoradiotherapy (CRT) plus immunotherapy subgroup had longer mPFS than the CRT subgroup, with increased toxicity at any grade (24.60 vs. 17.90 months, p=0.025; 83.17% vs. 65.52%, p=0.011). In the non-radiotherapy group, the DCR and mPFS were higher in the chemotherapy plus immunotherapy subgroup than in the chemotherapy subgroup, with increased toxicity at any grade (DCR: 93.67% vs. 67.86%, p＜0.001; mPFS: 13.53 vs. 5.07 months, p＜0.001; 68.35% vs. 41.67%, p=0.001). In mutant driver genes group, the efficacy did not significantly differ among radiotherapy subgroup, targeted therapy subgroup and radiotherapy plus targeted therapy subgroup (ORR: p=0.633; mPFS: p=0.450).
Conclusions: For unresectable stage III NSCLC patients with wild type driver genes, the combination of radiotherapy and immunotherapy in the initial treatment were essential to significantly improve the efficacy. For patients with mutant driver genes, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and the combination of radiotherapy and targeted therapy showed similar short-term efficacy.
Transcriptomic changes in the testes and brain associated with sperm competition risk in male zebra finches
Authors: Riyahi Sepand , Liebermann-Lilie Navina D. , Jacobs Arne , Korsten Peter , Mayer Uwe , Schmoll Tim
Published: November 2023

We investigated how phenotypic plasticity induced by experimentally manipulated sperm competition risk is reflected in transcriptomic profiles of testes and two brain areas (posterior pallium and optic tectum) in breeding male zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata). Based on an exceptionally large sample of 59 individual transcriptomes, we compared two experimental groups: males held in single pairs versus two pairs per breeding cage. We found tissue-specific differential gene expression in all three tissues at the level of gene co-expression network modules. The treatment affected multiple cellular functions in the testes, which can be associated with germ cell production and modification. Moreover, neural and glial brain cell changes indicate phenotypic adjustment of male zebra finch behaviour to the social environment. Finally, individual co-expression modules correlated with individual behavioural phenotypes and hormonal profiles. Our pre-registered study shows the importance of transcriptomic plasticity for phenotypic adjustment to male-male competition in zebra finches.

Peter Korsten, Uwe Mayer and Tim Schmoll share the last authorship.
Sense of social integration and academic achievement in adolescent students: Quasi-experimental estimates of reciprocal effects
Authors: Sakellariou Chris
Published: November 2023

This study investigated the role of endogeneity of variables of interest and associated biases when deriving effect estimates in the relationship between perceptions of social integration and students’ academic achievement. The dataset used is a large sample of 15-year-old students from the 2018 PISA surveys. Following an Instrumental Variable (IV) approach, paying particular attention to testing the suitability of instruments used, I derived bias-corrected effect estimates which are generally larger than conventional regression estimates. This was especially the case for female students in the direction from sense of social integration to reading literacy. Reciprocal effects were also established, with small to medium effect sizes in the direction from reading and mathematics scores to sense of social integration, for both male and female students. Clear policy implications emerge, targeting heterogeneous pairs/groups of students with respect to their social integration in school, as well as their academic performance.
METTL14 promotes neuroblastoma by inhibiting YWHAH via an m6A-YTHDF1-dependent mechanism
Authors: Pan Jian , Wang Jianwei , Yin Hongli , Li Gen , Wu Di , Xu Yunyun , Chen Yanling , Zhang Ting , Fei Danhong , Yang Pengcheng , Fang Fang , Tao Yan-Fang , Li Xiao-Lu , Yu Juan-Juan , Yang Yang , Li Zhi-Heng , Zhang Zimu
Published: November 2023

Neuroblastoma (NB) is a widely recognized childhood tumor with high global incidence. The regulatory role of RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) in gene expression has gained significant attention, and the impact of methyltransferase-like 14 (METTL14) on tumor progression has been extensively investigated in various cancer types. Nevertheless, the precise influence of METTL14 on NB remains unexplored. Based on the data obtained from the Target database, our study revealed a significant upregulation of METTL14 expression in high-risk patients, which exhibited a strong correlation with a poor prognosis. Additionally, we identified ETS1 and YY1 as upstream regulators of METTL14, exerting control over its expression. In vitro experiments involving the knockdown of METTL14 in NB cells demonstrated a substantial inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Moreover, the suppression of METTL14 also resulted in the inhibition of NB tumorigenesis in nude mouse models. Through MeRIP-seq and RNA-seq analyses, we further discovered that YWHAH is a downstream gene of METTL14. Mechanistically, we observed that methylated YWHAH transcripts, particularly in the 5'UTR region, were specifically recognized by the m6A "reader" protein, YTHDF1, which promoted the degradation of YWHAH mRNA. Furthermore, the downregulation of YWHAH led to the activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, thereby facilitating the activity of neuroblastoma cells. Collectively, The findings of our study have provided valuable insights into the oncogenic effects of METTL14 in NB cells, highlighting its role in the inhibition of YWHAH expression through an m6A-YTHDF1-dependent mechanism. These results also indicate the potential utility of a biomarker panel for prognostic prediction in neuroblastoma.
Continuous Electricity Generation from Charged Total Dissolved Solids in Wastewater Using a Bio-based Ion-Selective Power Generator
Authors: Yan Wenqing , Sun Jianguo , Garemark Jonas , Ruiz Maria Cortes , Tu Kunkun , Orlando Federico , Koch Sophie , Bao Liyuan , Fuchs Evamaria , Eroğlu Özen , Dreimol Christopher , Ding Yong , Chen Feng , Heisenberg Lavinia
Published: November 2023

Exploring the potential for secondary utilization of wastewater is a prudent strategy to achieve "take-make-use-dispose" circular economy. Taking advantages of wood's hierarchical structure and large surface area, in this project, we fabricated surface-encapsulated anion-selective (S-AWM) and cation-selective (S-CWM) wood membranes (comprising up to 98% eco-friendly materials) through a two-step process: dip-coating with either positively charged 2(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate or negatively charged acrylic acid, followed by energy-efficient sunlight-induced polymerization. The output voltage and current of a single modified wood cell (R x T x L: 20 x 20 x 3 mm3) in modulated wastewater from flue gas desulfurization are 55 mV and 0.6 µA, respectively, tenfold higher than that of untreated wood cells. When five cells are connected in series, the output voltage reaches 0.27 V, sufficient to power simple electronic devices. This underscores its potential for scaling up and its viability for future applications in industrial power plants.
Functional haematopoietic progenitor cells in the adult human lung
Authors: Conrad Catharina , Magnen Melia , Tsui Jessica , Wismer Harrison , Naser Mohammad , Venkataramani Urmila , Samad Bushra , Cleary Simon J. , Qiu Longhui , Tian Jennifer J. , De Giovanni Marco , Mende Nicole , Passegue Emmanuelle , Laurenti Elisa , Combes Alexis J. , Looney Mark
Published: November 2023

The bone marrow is classically viewed as the main site of blood cell production in adults, however, rare pools of haematopoietic stem and progenitor cells with self-renewal and differentiation potential have been described in extramedullary organs. The lung is primarily known for its role in gas exchange but has recently been identified as a site of blood (platelet) production in mice. Here, we show that functional haematopoietic precursors reside in the extravascular spaces of the human lung, at a frequency similar to the bone marrow, and are capable of proliferation and engraftment. Comparative transcriptomic profiling of pulmonary and medullary CD34+ haematopoietic progenitor cells revealed organ-specific gene signatures and indicated greater baseline activation of immune, megakaryocyte/platelet and erythroid-related pathways in progenitors from the lung. In the lung, these cells predominately reside in the vascular-rich alveolar interstitium and near macrophages. These results identify the lung as an important niche for uniquely programmed blood stem and progenitor cells with considerable potential to support haematopoiesis in humans.
Network pharmacology and experimental validation to study the potential mechanism of Tongguanteng injection against osteosarcoma
Authors: Wei Lanyi , meng Jingjing , xiang Danfeng , yang Quanjun , zhou Yangyun , xu Lingyan , wang Mengyue , chen Junjun , Han Yonglong
Published: November 2023

Objective The main objectives of this study were to identify the active components of TGT and investigate the preclinical efficacy and mechanism of TGT on osteosarcoma using a combination of network pharmacology and experimental validation.
Methods To identify the active constituents and targets of TGT against osteosarcoma using network pharmacology, we constructed a network consisting of an 'active ingredient-disease-target-pathway' and a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. The target organ network was utilized to investigate the distribution of core targets in tissues. Afterward, the core targets underwent Gene ontology (GO) functional enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses. The comparison of binding energy between receptors and ligands was conducted using molecular docking. In addition, SwissADME was employed to forecast the pharmacokinetic characteristics of the substances. Finally, real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), cell proliferation assay, morphological analysis, apoptosis assay, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) detection, and Western Blotting were utilized to confirm the potential mechanisms of TGT treatment in osteosarcoma cell lines 143B and SAOS2.
Results A total of 54 chemical constituents of TGT and 71 targets associated with osteosarcoma were acquired. Through the molecular docking technology, Tenacigenin B, Marsdekoiside, Taraxasterol, Tenacissoside G, Tenacissoside L, and Tenacissoside J were identified as the primary active components of TGT among the various compounds. Analysis of target organs suggests that TGT may play an anti-osteosarcoma role through immune regulation. The analysis of GO and KEGG enrichment revealed that TGT can trigger osteosarcoma cell apoptosis by inhibiting the HIF-1 signaling pathway and modulating PD-1 expression and the PD-1 checkpoint pathway in cancer. SwissADME database predicted that Tenacigenin B and Taraxasterol had the best drug-likeness. In vitro studies also demonstrated that TGT suppressed the activity and induced alterations in the morphology of osteosarcoma cells. It decreased MMP levels, triggered apoptosis by increasing Bax expression and Caspase-3 activity, and decreased Bcl-2 expression, thereby exerting an anti-osteosarcoma effect. In the meantime, RT-PCR tests demonstrated that TGT can control immune response against tumors and hinder the proliferation and spread of cancerous cells through its impact on the levels of key factors including JUN, HSP90AA1, HDAC1, and CDK1.
Conclusion The study accurately anticipated the active components, targets, and pathways of TGT in the management of osteosarcoma. The molecular mechanism of TGT induced apoptosis in osteosarcoma cells was demonstrated by in vitro experiments. These results provide theoretical and technical support for TGT as a clinical adjuvant drug for osteosarcoma.
Early human fetal lung atlas reveals the temporal dynamics of epithelial cell plasticity
Authors: Wong Amy , Quach* Henry , Farrell* Spencer , Kanagarajah Kayshani , Wu Michael , Xu Xiaoqiao , Kallurkar Prajkta , Turinsky Andrei , Bear Christine , Ratjen Felix , Goyal Sidhartha , Moraes Theo
Published: November 2023

While animal models have provided key insights into conserved mechanisms of how the lung forms during development, human-specific developmental mechanisms are not always captured. To fully appreciate how developmental defects and disease states alter the function of the lungs, studies in human lung models are important. Here, we sequenced >150,000 single single-cells from 19 healthy human fetal lung tissues from gestational weeks 10-19 and identified at least 58 unique cell types/states contributing to the developing lung. We captured novel dynamic developmental trajectories from various progenitor cells that give rise to ciliated and pulmonary neuroendocrine cells. We also identified four CFTR-expressing progenitor cell types and pinpointed the temporal emergence of these cell types. These developmental dynamics reveal broader epithelial cell plasticity and novel lineage hierarchies that were not previously reported. Combined with spatial transcriptomics, we identified both cell autonomous and non-cell autonomous signalling pathways that may dictate the temporal and spatial emergence of cell lineages. Finally, we showed that human pluripotent stem cell¬-derived fetal lung models capture cell lineage trajectories specifically through CFTR-expressing progenitor cells, that were also observed in the native fetal tissue. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive single-cell atlas of the developing human lung, outlining the temporal and spatial complexities of cell lineage development.
The Relationship between Theory of Mind and Literature Reading among Middle School Students: A Cross Lagged Study
Authors: Huang Chaobin , Niu Qiuxia , Yang juan
Published: November 2023

To explore the relationship between Theory of Mind(ToM) and literature reading among middle school students in China. A six month follow-up survey was conducted using the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test(RMET), the emotional intelligence scale, the personality trait questionnaire for middle school students and literature reading tests. After controlling for emotional intelligence and personality traits, the results found that: (1) There was a significant predictive effect between ToM and literature reading for junior middle school students. Among them, T1 ToM significantly predicted T2 score, T1 score significantly predicted T2 ToM. (2) There was a significant predictive effect between ToM and literature reading for senior middle school students. Among them, T1 ToM significantly predicted T2 score, T1 score significantly predicted T2 ToM. Conclusion: (1)There is a significant predictive effect between ToM and literature reading among middle school students in China; (2)ToM and literature reading are a mutually reinforcing development process among middle school students.
Comparative Study: Enhancing Legibility of Ancient Indian Script Images from Diverse Stone Background Structures using 34 Different Pre-Processing Methods
Authors: J Jayanthi , Maheshwari P. Uma
Published: November 2023

In recent times, there has been a proactive effort by various institutions and organizations to preserve historic manuscripts as repositories of traditional knowledge and cultural heritage. Leveraging digital media and emerging technologies has proven to be an efficient way to safeguard these invaluable documents. Such technologies not only facilitate the extraction of knowledge from historic manuscripts but also hold promise for global applications. However, transforming inscribed stone artifacts into binary formats presents significant challenges due to angle distortion, subtle differences between foreground and background, background noise, variations in text size, and related issues. A pivotal aspect of effective image processing in preserving the rich information and wisdom encoded in stone inscriptions lies in employing appropriate pre-processing methods and techniques. This research paper places a special focus on elucidating various preprocessing techniques, encompassing resizing, grayscale conversion, enhancement of brightness and contrast, smoothening, noise removal, morphological operations, and thresholding. To comprehensively assess these techniques, we undertake a study involving stone inscription images extracted from the Tanjore Brihadeeswar Temple, dating back to the 11th century during the reign of Raja Raja Chola. This choice is informed by the manifold challenges associated with image correction, such as distortion and blurring. We undertake an evaluation encompassing a diverse array of stone background structures, including types like flawless-bright-moderately legible, dark-illegible, flawless-bright-illegible, flawless-dull, flawless-irregular-moderate, highly impaired-dark-legible, highly impaired-irregular-illegible, impaired-dark-moderate, impaired-dull-moderately legible, impaired-dusky dark-moderate, and very impaired-dusky dark-legible. Subsequently, the processed outputs are subjected to character recognition and information extraction, with a focus on comparing the outcomes of various pre-processing methods, including binarization and grayscale conversion. This study seeks to contribute insights into the most effective pre-processing strategies for enhancing the legibility and preservation of ancient Indian script images etched onto diverse stone background structures.
Brain activation during standing balance control in dual-task paradigm and its correlation among older adults with mild cognitive impairment: A fNIRS study
Authors: Xu Guocai , Zhou Mian , Chen Yan , Song Qipeng , Sun Wei , Wang Jiangna
Published: November 2023

Background
This study aimed to compare the balance ability and functional brain oxygenation in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) among older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) under single and dual tasks, and also investigate their relationship. Neural regulatory mechanisms of the brain in the MCI were shed light on in balance control conditions.
Methods
21 older adults with MCI were recruited as the experimental group and 19 healthy older adults as the control group. Participants completed balance control of single task and dual task respectively. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and force measuring platform are used to collect hemodynamic signals of the PFC and center of pressure (COP) data during the balance task, respectively.
Results
The significant Group*Task interaction effect was found in D-ml, 95%AREA, RMS, RMS-ml, RMS-ap, SP, SP-ml, and SP-ap. The significant group effect was detected for five regions of interest (ROI), namely L45, R45, R10, L46, and R11. Under single task, D-ap, RMS, and RMS-ap were significantly negatively correlated with R45, L45, and R11 respectively. Under dual task, both RMS and 95%AREA were correlated positively with L45, and both L10 and R10 were positively correlated with RMS-ap.
Conclusion
The MCI demonstrated worse balance control ability as compared to healthy older adults. The greater activation of PFC under dual tasks in MCI may be considered a compensatory strategy for maintaining the standing balance. The brain activation was negatively correlated with balance ability under single task, and positively under dual task.
Trial registration: ChiCTR2100044221, 12/03/2021.
Examining spatiotemporal land cover dynamics in relation to rainfall and temperature: 1992-2022. Case of Chizarira National Park, Zimbabwe
Authors: Jeche Tapiwa , Mwedzi Tongayi
Published: November 2023

Understanding the spatiotemporal dynamics of land cover is crucial for establishing effective monitoring and evaluation programs to assess ecosystem changes. This study explores the intricate land cover dynamics within Chizarira National Park (CNP), Zimbabwe, spanning the period from 1992 to 2022. It seeks to elucidate the complex interplay between climate variables, land cover changes, and human impacts within the park’s ecosystem. Utilizing Google Earth Engine (GEE), we acquired time series data for Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), rainfall, and temperature, enabling us to map changes in five key land cover classes: water, trees, shrubs, grass, and bare land. Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) software facilitated further classification and the computation of area changes for each land cover class. Our analysis produced intriguing results. Mean annual Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) exhibited fluctuations, reaching its peak in 2017 and lowest in 1995. Notably, we found no significant correlation between rainfall and NDVI (rho = 0.32, p = 0.77) or between temperature and NDVI (rho = -0.16, p = 0.45). These findings indicate that climate variables alone may not be sufficient to explain NDVI variations. Notably, CNP experienced woody encroachment, with shrubs developing into trees, potentially altering ecosystem services and land cover. Additionally, the study identified bare land in areas impacted by illegal anthropogenic activities, underscoring the need for stronger conservation enforcement. This research serves as a critical baseline for understanding CNP's complex ecological system, informing strategies for conservation, and guiding future studies aimed at preserving this unique national park. It emphasizes the importance of monitoring and addressing human-induced changes, exploring fine-scale temporal dynamics, and investigating the impacts of fires and wildlife population density on vegetation cover.
Body Dissatisfaction among Pregnant Women: Associations with Anxiety and Depression
Authors: Tempia Valenta Silvia , Mangiafico Irene , Aldrovandi Sofia , Baldini Valentina , Andreotti Anna , Menchetti Marco , De Ronchi Diana , Atti Anna Rita
Published: November 2023

Introduction. During pregnancy, the body undergoes extreme changes that can lead to dissatisfaction and a loss of self-esteem. This vulnerability arises from objective physical changes and societal pressures to conform to beauty norms. This study aimed to investigate the presence of body dissatisfaction and its association with depression and anxiety in a sample of pregnant women.
Methods. A cross-sectional digital survey was administered between May and June 2022. The survey included sociodemographic, pregnancy, weight-nutritional, and mental health domains. The latter included an exploration of psychiatric self-reported history alongside standardized instruments for evaluating body dissatisfaction (Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, EDE-Q), depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9, PHQ-9), and anxiety symptoms (General Anxiety Disorder-7, GAD-7). Subsequently, the dataset underwent descriptive analyses, followed by applying Kendall’s Tau correlations and linear regression models to explore the association between depression, anxiety, and body dissatisfaction.
Results. Within our sample (N = 711), one in ten subjects reported body dissatisfaction during pregnancy, with nearly half experiencing symptoms indicative of anxiety and depression. Body dissatisfaction was found to be associated with anxious-depressive symptoms and with a history of depression.
Conclusions. The conspicuous prevalence of body dissatisfaction, associated with depression and anxiety, suggests considering the issue of body experience as an indicative marker of perinatal emotional distress. This justifies the need for in-depth exploration within clinical settings, where opportunities for therapeutic interventions can be explored.