bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postmenopausal Ovarian Sertoli-Leydig Tumours: Case Report
Authors: K Ikouch , FZ Hachami , D EL Karoini , S Tossi , S Mahdaoui , H Boufettal , S Samouh , A EL Kbir , M Regragui , M Karkouri
Published: March 2024

Sertoli and Leydig cell tumours are rare secretory tumours of the mesenchyme and sex cords. Diagnostic certainty is histological after surgery and there is no specific ultrasound sign despite the strong clinical presumption. The prognosis depends on the degree of cellular differentiation and the presence of heterologous elements. We report on the occurrence of a sertoli-leydig tumour in a 50-year-old postmenopausal woman. Poorly differentiated forms of Sertoli-Leydig tumours have a significant malignant potential. Treatment is surgical, with chemotherapy providing an interesting adjuvant. The prognosis after surgery is dominated by recurrence.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF AUTOMATION FUNCTIONAL TESTING TOOLS PERFORMANCE FOR PLAYSTORE APPS WITH DIA METHOD
Authors: Riza Faizal , Berliyanto Berliyanto , Nurrohman Aji , Setiabudi Rachmat
Published: March 2024

The complexity of smartphone applications presents challenges for developers, who must ensure flawless functionality despite limitations such as budget and time constraints. Manual testing is time-consuming, prompting a shift towards automated testing methods to ensure efficiency and reliability. In this context, researchers are evaluating the efficacy of three leading test automation frameworks—Robot Framework, Katalon Studio, and UI Path—against key performance parameters. Using the Distance to the Ideal Alternative (DIA) method on playstore apps. The main performance parameters used as a reference are automated testing progress and tools usability. Katalon Studio emerges as the top performer, securing the top rank with a remarkably close to the alternative ideal positive distance (Ri) value of 0.00001. UI Path occupies the second position with a Ri value of 0.00135, while Robot Framework trails behind with a Ri value of 0.00295. This research contributes to the understanding of the performance of different automation frameworks in the context of functional testing, providing valuable insights for developers and organizations seeking to optimize their testing processes. The findings underscore the significance of Katalon Studio's exceptional performance and highlight opportunities for improvement in UI Path and Robot Framework. Additionally, implementing a robust monitoring and evaluation framework is crucial for tracking the ongoing performance and optimizing the efficiency of these automation frameworks.
WOODWORK TRAINING WITH LAMINATING TECHNIQUES FOR PAEDAGOGIA SLB STUDENTS
Authors:   Universitas Katolik Darma Cendika, Setio Stefanus Prabani , Putra Heristama Anugrah ,   Universitas Katolik Darma Cendika, Widyastuti Maria ,   Universitas Katolik Darma Cendika, Jurney Flavianus Nefliando Base ,   Universitas Katolik Darma Cendika, Harianto Johanes Kristianus ,   Universitas Katolik Darma Cendika, Harefa Mei Kristiani ,   Universitas Katolik Darma Cendika, Renwarin Maria Risky Pratiwi ,   Universitas Katolik Darma Cendika
Published: March 2024

The opportunity to practice, try and be independent is the right of all human beings. In reality, there are still human beings who find it difficult to get the opportunity to practice and develop themselves with the new skills that exist. Opportunities to get training are sometimes not considered for people with disabilities. Physical, mental and intellectual limitations become a barrier to be equal with non-disabled people. Activity limitations are not an excuse not to study and practice. Human ability has a tendency to understand a skill that is given the right method and the right practical understanding. Easy understanding, innovation in implementation methods is a solution for people with disabilities. Ability does not appear suddenly but requires assistance. The implementation of training activities for people with disabilities carried out by the community service team at SLB Paedagogia Surabaya provided a positive stimulus. The formation of an understanding of how easy it is to make a bench that has aesthetic, functional and economic value. Through the technique of lamination of plywood on curved moldings, the students understand one of the carpentry techniques. With a pedagogic approach, the application of the lamination technique by simplifying the production stage makes it easy for students with disabilities. Inherent assistance that is carried out for students with disabilities is a means of transferring knowledge.
A WORKSHOP TO ENHANCE DESTINY INSTITUTE TEACHERS’ TECHNOLOGY KNOWLEDGE
Authors:   Universitas Kristen Satya Wacana, Tanore Jose Argo , Paramitha Natasha Gracia ,   Universitas Kristen Satya Wacana, Picauly Irma Amy ,   Universitas Kristen Satya Wacana
Published: March 2024

Program pengabdian masyarakat ini, dalam bentuk lokakarya teknologi, bertujuan untuk membekali guru dalam pengetahuan dan keterampilan yang diperlukan dengan menggunakan teknologi secara efektif dalam kegiatan mengajar mereka. Program tersebut dilaksanakan pada 27 Maret 2022 di Destiny Institute Salatiga dan melibatkan empat guru di sekolah tersebut. Lokakarya ini memperkenalkan dua platform, "Genially" dan "The Secret Annex", yang merupakan alat interaktif yang cocok bagi siswa dan guru untuk mendukung proses belajar mengajar mereka. Selama lokakarya, penulis memastikan bahwa para peserta memiliki pengalaman langsung dengan Genially dan menjelajahi The Secret Annex dengan detail. Para peserta mendapat kesempatan untuk belajar tentang platform ini karena kebanyakan dari mereka belum pernah menggunakan atau mendengarnya sebelumnya. Menurut tanggapan yang diterima dari para peserta, platform ini mudah untuk digunakan, interaktif, dan menarik membuat proses belajar lebih menyenangkan. Mereka merasa platform ini sangat bermanfaat bagi guru dan siswa karena dapat digunakan untuk mendukung berbagai aspek proses pembelajaran, seperti membuat presentasi interaktif, timeline video, kuis, dan konten multimedia lainnya. Secara umum, program pengabdian masyarakat berhasil memperkenalkan alat teknologi digital baru kepada para pendidik bahasa Inggris di Salatiga. Para penulis berharap bahwa program tersebut telah menginspirasi mereka untuk memasukkan platform ini ke dalam praktik pengajaran mereka dan mengeksplorasi cara-cara baru untuk meningkatkan pengalaman belajar bagi siswa mereka. Penulis berkomitmen untuk meningkatkan lokakarya mereka untuk memberikan pengalaman yang lebih produktif dan menarik di masa depan, berkontribusi pada pertumbuhan pendidik bahasa Inggris di Salatiga.
PELATIHAN DAN PENDAMPINGAN UNTUK PENGUATAN KELEMBAGAAN UMKM DI KELURAHAN SUKOLILO BARU, KENJERAN, SURABAYA
Authors:   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Nugrohadi Gratianus Edwi , Ardhanari Margaretha ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya
Published: March 2024

Pemilihan topik kegiatan pengabdian kepada masyarakat yang dijalankan saat ini berangkat dari keprihatinan terhadap keberadaan para pelaku usaha, terutama yang mengolah dan menjual produk kerupuk hasil laut, yang berada di Kelurahan Sukolilo Baru, Kenjeran, Surabaya. Sejak adanya Covid-19, hal yang paling dirasakan oleh para pelaku usaha ini adalah penurunan volume penjualan. Para pelaku UMKM hanya menggunakan format toko (konvensional) untuk memasarkan produknya yaitu hanya menunggu pembeli untuk datang ke toko sedangkan produk yang dihasilkan memiliki daya tahan yang tidak lama (mudah rusak). Oleh karena itu, dibutuhkan terobosan baru agar usaha ini dapat terus berjalan. Program Abdimas ini bekerjasama dengan 15 mitra UMKM produk kerupuk olahan hasil laut yang ada di Kelurahan Sukolilo Baru, Kecamatan Bulak, Kota Surabaya. Solusi yang ditawarkan pada para mitra adalah: peningkatan nilai produk melalui perolehan NIB, PIRT dan sertifikasi Halal. Dalam pelaksanaannya, kegiatan abdimas ini melibatkan mahasiswa. Sampai dengan kegiatan pengabdian pada masyarakat ini berakhir, luaran yang dicapai adalah UMKM mitra sudah mampu melakukan pengemasan produk lebih baik, memiliki label dan merek produk, 3 mitra UMKM mampu mendaftarkan NIB versi baru dan 2 mitra memperoleh PIRT dan siap untuk mengajukan sertifikasi Halal.
Determinants of adherence to COVID-19 vaccine | Fact-sheets collection from the Portuguese COVID-19 pandemic Task Force on Behavioral Sciences
Authors: R. Santos Ricardo , Santos Osvaldo , Gaspar de Matos Margarida
Published: March 2024

Adherence to COVID-19 vaccine is determined by several cognitive and emotional determinants. Portuguese population has remarkable trust level on vaccines, also explained by a highly favorable public perception of the quality of healthcare public services. However, the process of development, testing and implementation of COVID-19 vaccines (some of them involving new applied health technology) raises concern in important segments of the population. Effective programs for promotion of adherence to COVID-19 vaccine requires communicating easy-to-understand, solid and credible evidence about the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines (at individual and collective levels) and about the safety of these vaccines (at short and long terms). Reducing the number of steps and procedure complexity for accessing the vaccine is also crucial for the adherence to this form of severe COVID-19 prevention.
The role of emotions in health-promoting behavior campaigns | Fact-sheets collection from the Portuguese COVID-19 pandemic Task Force on Behavioral Sciences
Authors: R. Santos Ricardo , Santos Osvaldo , Gaspar de Matos Margarida
Published: March 2024

Behavioral activation requires both cognitive and emotional processes. Fast and automatic decisions are highly dependent of emotional stata and, therefore, emotion activation is widely used in marketing initiatives. Health promotion campaigns traditionally opted by using threatening messages, aiming to raise awareness of health risks and to promote adherence to health behaviors. However, the evidence does not support the hypothesis that using fear-inducing messages promotes systematically the expected health protection behavior. Instead, the use of messages promoting positive emotions associated with the target behavior should be the first choice for health promotion programs. The effect of messages on emotional experiencing should be tested as much as possible (considering most vulnerable groups), before launching large-scale campaigns, as well as its effectiveness on the desired health behavior activation.
Anxiety Analysis of Petanque Athletes from West Java
Authors: Iskandar Tatang
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this study was to analyze the levels of anxiety of West Java pétanque athletes before, during, and after the Provincial Sports Week (PORPROV) XIV match in Ciamis Regency. This study used a quantitative descriptive research design. The population in this study were 146 Petanque athletes who participated in the West Java PORPROV XIV Year 2022 in Ciamis regency. This study used a purposive sample technique with the criteria of medal winners at the West Java PORPROV in 2022. The number of samples obtained was 78 athletes. Theis study used a closed questionnaire as a research instrument.  The results of this study show that female athletes of West Java have a relatively high level of anxiety while male athletes have a relatively medium level of anxiety. In general, the participants have medium level of anxiety before and after the match. On the other hand, the participants were shown to have a high level of anxiety during the match.
Baricitinib Demonstrates Rapid Action Within Just 2 Months of Treatment in Severe and Unresponsive Alopecia Areata: A Case Report
Authors: Tampouratzi E , Sfaelos K , Pizimola M , Rigatos P , Katsantonis J
Published: March 2024

Alopecia areata (AA) is a form of nonscarring alopecia, and is the most common immune-mediated cause of hair loss worldwide. Numerous therapeutic schedules available as off-label options have demonstrated only limited results. However, in 2022, baricitinib, a selective JAK1 and JAK2 inhibitor, was approved as an oral administered systemic therapy for severe AA. Based on this, the authors used it in a 21-year-old White female, who presented with a 15-year history of severe AA (Severity of Alopecia Tool score [SALT]: score 88) and immense psychological burden. After laboratory examinations within normal limits, baricitinib was administered as monotherapy with a 4 mg daily dosage. The severe AA improved rapidly after the first month, and resulted in total hair restoration just after the second month under baricitinib treatment. Besides clinical improvement, SALT score impressively reduced to 30 and 10, respectively, in 2 and 6 months. Six months later, the patient is keeping up the same treatment with no sign of relapse, and is on a 2-month follow-up schedule. In the authors’ patient, almost total hair restoration was achieved in less than 3 months of treatment, which strongly advocates for the addition of baricitinib in the dermatologic armament as a safe, adequate, and fast AA remedy.
Tukutuku in te Tiriti o Waitangi: A Tikanga Māori Touchstone for Tiriti Interpretation
Authors: Browning Claire
Published: March 2024

The tikanga Māori concept, tuku, in te Tiriti o Waitangi’s reo Māori text warrants focus in Tiriti interpretation. This article reviews the place of tuku in te Tiriti and considers how applied, tikanga-centred study of this concept contributes to a tikanga Māori perspective on the proper relationality of that treaty’s parties. Studying, as sources of principle, tuku in two treaty-applicable customary contexts – the wall panel weaving technique, tukutuku (an alliance between two workers) and the socio-political alliances of tuku whenua –  shows ways in which both the text of te Tiriti and well-settled ‘principles of the Treaty of Waitangi’ align with these tuku, and thus tikanga. Not only has this explanatory value with respect to te Tiriti o Waitangi principles; it yields insights both relationally and constitutionally. In tuku, the Tiriti relationship has tikanga-consistent foundations; it is anchored already in a tikanga paradigm. However, whereas framing presently predominantly focuses on parties’ ‘partnership’, this is an insufficient account. Another conception of treaty relations lies in tukutuku panel making, an alliance which depends on a reciprocal connection, works toward a woven construction, and is grounded in a kinship metaphor.
PENDAMPINGAN MUJAHADAH DAN ISTIGHOSAH UNTUK MENINGKATKAN KECERDASAN SPIRITUAL KEAGAMAAN SANTRI DAN MASYARAKAT
Authors: Choiri Moh Miftahul , Nurdiansyah Denny , Rokhim Auliyaur
Published: March 2024

Abstract : This Mujahadah and Istighosah activity was carried out in order to guard and develop the spirituality of the community and students in the Raudhatul Ulum Campurejo Bojonegoro Islamic Boarding School. A person's spiritual level sometimes rises, sometimes falls, so efforts are needed to stabilize this condition. For example, there is a student who has just entered the boarding school and is naughty at first, then after being at the boarding school and graduating, he becomes an obedient child. This cannot be separated from the efforts of a kyai or ustadz, namely dhohir and inner efforts. Dhohir's efforts include teaching, directing, educating and so on. Meanwhile, inner efforts are prayer, penance, mujahadah, istighosah and so on. These two efforts must be carried out in balance. So we, as a community service team, want to hold Mujahadah and Istighosah assistance activities to improve the religious spirituality of the community and students in the Raudhatul Ulum Campurejo Islamic Boarding School, Bojonegoro.               The Community Service method used is the Participatory Action Research model. Namely, the mentor goes directly to the field to oversee the mentoring process from the beginning to the end of the activity. The stages or steps that will be taken in carrying out mujahadah and Istighosah assistance to increase religious spiritual intelligence are as follows: Identification of needs and goals, Determining companions, Gathering information, Forming groups or clusters, Preparing programs and schedules, Implementing mujahadah and istighosah practices, Teaching mujahadah and istighosah material, Monitoring and evaluation, Support and motivation and finally program evaluation

Keywords: Mujahadah, Istighosah, Spiritual intelligence
Protesting the Local Library: Past and present political contestation in public libraries
Authors: Sutherland Jacob
Published: March 2024

Public libraries in the United States have historically been the sites of political contestation and controversy. This ranges from contestation surrounding library funding to the content of library collections. Recently, activism within and against public libraries has become more frequent. This begs the question: how does political contestation in public libraries look today? Using a media analysis of U.S. public library contestation and controversy from 2019–2023, this paper presents categories of contemporary library contestation. These categories situate public libraries within a broader, ongoing context of efforts to polarize local political institutions.
Sustainable, safe and ethical food systems through a One Health lens
Authors: Alders Robyn
Published: March 2024

Defining and facilitating sustainable, safe and ethical food systems in support of human, animal and planetary health is among the greatest challenges facing humanity today. In the 2020s, over 10 per cent of people globally are undernourished and approximately 30 per cent are deficient in key micronutrients. How can we deliver the second Sustainable Development Goal of Zero Hunger for all and achieve food security? The world’s food system is struggling and the number of hungry people is increasing. An integrated approach to health and food and nutrition security is essential to move forward in ways that support transformation of the food system to one that is more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient. Employing a One Health approach can support optimal health outcomes based on a recognition of the interconnections between humans, animals, plants, and their shared environment. Although emergency and prevention activities within sectors may be appropriate for some responses, for complex problems such as chronic hunger and unsustainable agricultural practices, sectoral responses alone rarely deliver sustained positive outcomes. Currently, One Health tends to be implemented through consultation between sectors, but it will become fully functional when circular food, health, and economic systems—based on continual use of materials and products and elimination of waste—are implemented at local, national, and global levels. By highlighting the ways our current challenges are interconnected, One Health points to the need to tackle the various crises holistically in order to avert future health crises, restore a healthy planet, and end hunger.
Towards optimized tissue regeneration: a new 3D printable bioink of alginate/cellulose hydrogel loaded with thrombocyte concentrate
Authors: Grandjean Till , Perumal Natarajan , Manicam Caroline , Matthey Björn , Wu Tao , Thiem Daniel G. E. , Stein Stefan , Henrich Dirk , Kämmerer Peer W. , Al-Nawas Bilal , Ritz Ulrike , Blatt Sebastian
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Autologous platelet concentrate (APC) are pro-angiogenic and can promote wound healing and tissue repair, also in combination with other biomaterials. However, challenging defect situations remain demanding. 3D bioprinting of an APC based bioink encapsulated in a hydrogel could overcome this limitation with enhanced physio-mechanical interface, growth factor retention/secretion and defect-personalized shape to ultimately enhance regeneration.

Methods:

This study used extrusion-based bioprinting to create a novel bioink of alginate/cellulose hydrogel loaded with thrombocyte concentrate. Chemico-physical testing exhibited an amorphous structure characterized by high shape fidelity. Cytotoxicity assay and incubation of human osteogenic sarcoma cells (SaOs2) exposed excellent biocompatibility. enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analysis confirmed pro-angiogenic growth factor release of the printed constructs, and co-incubation with HUVECS displayed proper cell viability and proliferation. Chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay explored the pro-angiogenic potential of the prints in vivo. Detailed proteome and secretome analysis revealed a substantial amount and homologous presence of pro-angiogenic proteins in the 3D construct.

Results:

This study demonstrated a 3D bioprinting approach to fabricate a novel bioink of alginate/cellulose hydrogel loaded with thrombocyte concentrate with high shape fidelity, biocompatibility, and substantial pro-angiogenic properties.

Conclusion:

This approach may be suitable for challenging physiological and anatomical defect situations when translated into clinical use.
Current application and future perspectives of antimicrobial degradable bone substitutes for chronic osteomyelitis
Authors: Jiang Chenxi , Zhu Guangxun , Liu Qian
Published: March 2024

Chronic osteomyelitis remains a persistent challenge for the surgeons due to its refractory nature. Generally, treatment involves extensive debridement of necrotic bone, filling of dead space, adequate antimicrobial therapy, bone reconstruction, and rehabilitation. However, the optimal choice of bone substitute to manage the bone defect remains debatable. This paper reviewed the clinical evidence for antimicrobial biodegradable bone substitutes in the treatment of osteomyelitis in recent years. Indeed, this combination was proved to eradicate infection and facilitate bone reconstruction, which might reduce the cost and hospital stay. Handling was associated with increased risk of unwanted side effect to affect bone healing. The study provides some valuable insights into the clinical evaluation of treatment outcomes in the aspects of infection eradication, bone reconstruction, and complications caused by materials. However, achieving complete infection eradication and subsequently perfect bone reconstruction remains challenging in compromised conditions, hence advanced innovative bone substitutes are imperative. In this review, we mainly focus on the desired functional effects of advanced bone substitutes on infection eradication and bone reconstruction from the future perspective. Handling property was optimized to simplify surgery process. It is expected that this review will provide an important opportunity to enhance the understanding of the design and application of innovative biomaterials to synergistically eradicate infection and restore integrity and function of bone.
DNA minicircles capable of forming a variety of non-canonical structural motifs
Authors: Trizna Lukáš , Olajoš Jakub , Víglaský Viktor
Published: March 2024

Although more than 10% of the human genome has the potential to fold into non-B DNA, the formation of non-canonical structural motifs as part of long dsDNA chains are usually considered as unfavorable from a thermodynamic point of view. However, recent experiments have confirmed that non-canonical motifs do exist and are non-randomly distributed in genomic DNA. This distribution is highly dependent not only on the DNA sequence but also on various other factors such as environmental conditions, DNA topology and the expression of specific cellular factors in different cell types. In this study, we describe a new strategy used in the preparation of DNA minicircles containing different non-canonical motifs which arise as a result of imperfect base pairing between complementary strands. The approach exploits the fact that imperfections in the pairing of complementary strands thermodynamically weaken the dsDNA structure at the expense of enhancing the formation of non-canonical motifs. In this study, a completely different concept of stable integration of a non-canonical motif into dsDNA is presented. Our approach allows the integration of various types of non-canonical motifs into the dsDNA structure such as hairpin, cruciform, G-quadruplex and i-motif forms but also combinations of these forms. Small DNA minicircles have recently become the subject of considerable interest in both fundamental research and in terms of their potential therapeutic applications.
A comparative study in class imbalance mitigation when working with physiological signals
Authors: Abdulsadig Rawan S. , Rodriguez-Villegas Esther
Published: March 2024

Class imbalance is a common challenge that is often faced when dealing with classification tasks aiming to detect medical events that are particularly infrequent. Apnoea is an example of such events. This challenge can however be mitigated using class rebalancing algorithms. This work investigated 10 widely used data-level class imbalance mitigation methods aiming towards building a random forest (RF) model that attempts to detect apnoea events from photoplethysmography (PPG) signals acquired from the neck. Those methods are random undersampling (RandUS), random oversampling (RandOS), condensed nearest-neighbors (CNNUS), edited nearest-neighbors (ENNUS), Tomek’s links (TomekUS), synthetic minority oversampling technique (SMOTE), Borderline-SMOTE (BLSMOTE), adaptive synthetic oversampling (ADASYN), SMOTE with TomekUS (SMOTETomek) and SMOTE with ENNUS (SMOTEENN). Feature-space transformation using PCA and KernelPCA was also examined as a potential way of providing better representations of the data for the class rebalancing methods to operate. This work showed that RandUS is the best option for improving the sensitivity score (up to 11%). However, it could hinder the overall accuracy due to the reduced amount of training data. On the other hand, augmenting the data with new artificial data points was shown to be a non-trivial task that needs further development, especially in the presence of subject dependencies, as was the case in this work.
Using stable isotopes in deciphering climate changes from travertine deposits: the case of the Lapis Tiburtinus succession (Acque Albule Basin, Tivoli, Central Italy)
Authors: Mancini Alessandro , Cornacchia Irene , Lamal Joachim , Capezzuoli Enrico , Swennen Rudy , Brandano Marco
Published: March 2024

Quaternary stable isotope records of marine and lacustrine carbonate deposits as well as speleothems were extensively studied to reconstruct global and regional climatic evolution. This study demonstrates how stable isotope records of travertine provide fundamental information about climate and the consequences of its evolution on groundwater level fluctuations. The deposition of the Lapis Tiburtinus travertine succession occurred during the Late Pleistocene (150–30 ka), coeval with the last activity of the Colli Albani volcanic complex. Two boreholes (Sn1 and Sn2) were drilled into the Acque Albule Basin (23 km E of Rome), crossing the entire Lapis Tiburtinus succession. The Sn1 borehole in the central part of the basin crosscuts a travertine succession of 62.1 m in thickness, while the Sn2 borehole in the southern part of the basin is characterized by a travertine succession 36.3 m in thickness. Carbon and oxygen stable isotope ratios were analysed on 118 samples (59 samples both for Sn1 and Sn2 boreholes) representative of the entire Lapis Tiburtinus travertine succession crossed by the boreholes. Values, measured and correlated in the two drilled boreholes, permitted determination of the sensitivity of the travertine depositional system to glacial and interglacial cycles, unravelling the complex oxygen and carbon cycle dynamic recorded in such sedimentary succession. Moreover, the results obtained correlated with available pollen curves of the Mediterranean area (from the Castiglione crater, 25 km E of Rome). Regional and global oxygen isotope continental and marine curves, calibrated with the stratigraphy of the Acque Albule Basin, and available U/Th dating allow the identification of at least three phases of the last interglacial (Marine Isotope Stage 5-MIS5). The carbon isotope record, compared with CO2 flux reconstructed and associated with the volcanic activity of the Colli Albani volcanic complex, instead shows an influence from groundwater level changes. In particular, positive shifts that occurred during arid phases are associated with a lower groundwater level and increased CO2 degassing, inducing a major fractionation effect on carbon isotopes. Instead, the negative shifts occurring during more humid periods indicate the inhibition of CO2 degassing and increase in pressure, attesting to a rise in groundwater level. In this view, travertine deposits, frequently studied to define the tectonic setting and activity of the area where they develop, can thus also be used as a tool to understand climate changes and groundwater variations apparent in their stable oxygen and carbon isotope signature.
The effects of popular diets on bone health in the past decade: a narrative review
Authors: Peng Yue , Zhong Zikang , Huang Cheng , Wang Weiguo
Published: March 2024

Bone health encompasses not only bone mineral density but also bone architecture and mechanical properties that can impact bone strength. While specific dietary interventions have been proposed to treat various diseases such as obesity and diabetes, their effects on bone health remain unclear. The aim of this review is to examine literature published in the past decade, summarize the effects of currently popular diets on bone health, elucidate underlying mechanisms, and provide solutions to neutralize the side effects. The diets discussed in this review include a ketogenic diet (KD), a Mediterranean diet (MD), caloric restriction (CR), a high-protein diet (HP), and intermittent fasting (IF). Although detrimental effects on bone health have been noticed in the KD and CR diets, it is still controversial, while the MD and HP diets have shown protective effects, and the effects of IF diets are still uncertain. The mechanism of these effects and the attenuation methods have gained attention and have been discussed in recent years: the KD diet interrupts energy balance and calcium metabolism, which reduces bone quality. Ginsenoside-Rb2, metformin, and simvastatin have been shown to attenuate bone loss during KD. The CR diet influences energy imbalance, glucocorticoid levels, and adipose tissue, causing bone loss. Adequate vitamin D and calcium supplementation and exercise training can attenuate these effects. The olive oil in the MD may be an effective component that protects bone health. HP diets also have components that protect bone health, but their mechanism requires further investigation. In IF, animal studies have shown detrimental effects on bone health, while human studies have not. Therefore, the effects of diets on bone health vary accordingly.
Gut microbiota and therapy for obesity and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Zhang Luyao , Wang Pai , Huang Juan , Xing Yanpeng , Wong F. Susan , Suo Jian , Wen Li
Published: March 2024

There has been a major increase in Type 2 diabetes and obesity in many countries, and this will lead to a global public health crisis, which not only impacts on the quality of life of individuals well but also places a substantial burden on healthcare systems and economies. Obesity is linked to not only to type 2 diabetes but also cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, and certain cancers, also resulting in increased medical costs and diminished quality of life. A number of studies have linked changes in gut in obesity development. Dysbiosis, a deleterious change in gut microbiota composition, leads to altered intestinal permeability, associated with obesity and Type 2 diabetes. Many factors affect the homeostasis of gut microbiota, including diet, genetics, circadian rhythms, medication, probiotics, and antibiotics. In addition, bariatric surgery induces changes in gut microbiota that contributes to the metabolic benefits observed post-surgery. Current obesity management strategies encompass dietary interventions, exercise, pharmacotherapy, and bariatric surgery, with emerging treatments including microbiota-altering approaches showing promising efficacy. While pharmacotherapy has demonstrated significant advancements in recent years, bariatric surgery remains one of the most effective treatments for sustainable weight loss. However, access to this is generally limited to those living with severe obesity. This underscores the need for non-surgical interventions, particularly for adolescents and mildly obese patients. In this comprehensive review, we assess longitudinal alterations in gut microbiota composition and functionality resulting from the two currently most effective anti-obesity treatments: pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery. Additionally, we highlight the functions of gut microbiota, focusing on specific bacteria, their metabolites, and strategies for modulating gut microbiota to prevent and treat obesity. This review aims to provide insights into the evolving landscape of obesity management and the potential of microbiota-based approaches in addressing this pressing global health challenge.
Vegetation cover change and its response to human activities in the southwestern karst region of China
Authors: Liu Zhaopu , Zhang Yushan
Published: March 2024

Vegetation to some extent can reflect the overall state of the ecological environment, and increasing vegetation cover can improve the quality of the ecological environment. The southwest karst region of China is a typical ecologically fragile area and an important ecological barrier. Against the backdrop of intensified human activities, the vegetation dynamics in the karst region have attracted widespread attention. Analyzing vegetation cover changes and their responses to human activities is important for regional ecological development. This study is based on SPOT-VGT NDVI data from 1998 to 2020 and employs trend analysis, “baseline” determination, multiple regression, residual analysis, and principal component analysis to investigate the characteristics of vegetation cover changes in the southwest karst region of China. Additionally, it quantifies the specific impacts of various human activities on these changes. The research findings indicate that (1) over the past 23 years, the interannual variability and seasonal differences in the NDVI of the southwest karst region have been significant, exhibiting an overall increasing trend. Spatially, the vegetation in this region demonstrates a decreasing trend from south to north and southwest to northeast. (2) Over time, the areas where vegetation has improved gradually expand, and the effectiveness of vegetation restoration increases with time. (3) Overall, human activities influence vegetation growth in the southwest karst landscape region of China. (4) The socioeconomic factors affecting vegetation cover changes in the southwest karst region of China primarily include economic development level, population and labor migration, urbanization development, and vegetation construction. These results provide a scientific basis for formulating reasonable ecological environment protection strategies by humans.
Metabarcoding clarifies the diet of the elusive and vulnerable Australian tjakura (Great Desert Skink, Liopholis kintorei)
Authors: Thuo David , Macgregor Nicholas A. , Merson Samuel D. , Scopel Dianne , Keogh J. Scott , Kenny Jeremy , Williams Jessica L. , Guest Tracey , Swan Shaeleigh , McAlpin Steve , Joseph Leo
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Accurately quantifying the diet of species has implications for our understanding of their ecology and conservation. Yet, determining the dietary composition of threatened and elusive species in the wild is often difficult.

Methods

This study presents the first dietary assessment of tjakura (Liopholis kintorei) using non-invasive sampling of scats and high-throughput sequencing techniques.

Results

The tjakura in Uluru consumed 48 invertebrates, 27 plants, and two vertebrate taxa. Fruit flies (Leucophenga spp.), beetles (Harpalus spp. and Omorgus spp.), mosquitos (Culicidae spp.), termites (Termitidae spp.), spiked mallow (Malvastrum americanum), bush tomatoes (Solanum centrale), and wild turnip (Brassica tournefortii) comprised the majority of the diet. Analysis of similarity revealed that food items did not differ significantly between tjakura age groups, seasons, or time since the last fire, however, adults, hot season, and fire scar of 2018 showed a relatively higher prey diversity.

Discussion

These high similarities in diet composition between age classes and fire scars indicate potential intraspecific competition when food resources are scarce. The diet diversity and potential plasticity observed in this study reflect a dietary ecology influenced by food availability rather than preference. Our study demonstrates that scat DNA metabarcoding is an important complementary tool to conventional scat analysis or indigenous knowledge as most food items we identified were previously not recorded through those methods.
Unveiling the role of tRNA-derived small RNAs in MAPK signaling pathway: implications for cancer and beyond
Authors: Wang Qurui , Huang Qinyuan , Ying Xiaowei , Shen Jinze , Duan Shiwei
Published: March 2024

tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) are novel small non-coding RNAs originating from mature or precursor tRNAs (pre-tRNA), typically spanning 14 to 30 nt. The Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathway orchestrates cellular responses, influencing proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and transformation. tsRNAs influence the expression of the MAPK signaling pathway by targeting specific proteins within the pathway. Presently, four MAPK-linked tsRNAs have implications in gastric cancer (GC) and high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC). Notably, tRF-Glu-TTC-027 and tRF-Val-CAC-016 modulate MAPK-related protein expression, encompassing p38, Myc, ERK, CyclinD1, CyclinB, and c-Myc, hindering GC progression via MAPK pathway inhibition. Moreover, tRF-24-V29K9UV3IU and tRF-03357 remain unexplored in specific mechanisms. KEGG analysis posits varied tsRNAs in MAPK pathway modulation for diverse non-cancer maladies. Notably, high tRF-36-F900BY4D84KRIME and tRF-23-87R8WP9IY expression relates to varicose vein (VV) risk. Elevated tiRNA-Gly-GCC-001, tRF-Gly-GCC-012, tRF-Gly-GCC-013, and tRF-Gly-GCC-016 target spinal cord injury (SCI)-related brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), influencing MAPK expression. tRF-Gly-CCC-039 associates with diabetes foot sustained healing, while tRF-5014a inhibits autophagy-linked ATG5 in diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). Additionally, tsRNA-14783 influences keloid formation by regulating M2 macrophage polarization. Upregulation of tRF-Arg-ACG-007 and downregulation of tRF-Ser-GCT-008 are associated with diabetes. tsRNA-04002 alleviates Intervertebral disk degeneration (IDD) by targeting PRKCA. tsRNA-21109 alleviates Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) by inhibiting macrophage M1 polarization. The upregulated tiNA-Gly-GCC-002 and the downregulated tRF-Ala-AGC-010, tRF-Gln-CTG-005 and tRF-Leu-AAG-001 may be involved in the pathogenesis of Lupus nephritis (LN) by affecting the expression of MAPK pathway. Downregulation of tsRNA-1018, tsRNA-3045b, tsRNA-5021a and tsRNA-1020 affected the expression of MAPK pathway, thereby improving Acute lung injury (ALI). This review comprehensively dissects tsRNA roles in MAPK signaling across cancers and other diseases, illuminating a novel avenue for translational medical exploration.
Indole-3-carbinol attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome through activation of AhR: role of CCR2+ monocyte activation and recruitment in the regulation of CXCR2+ neutrophils in the lungs
Authors: Holloman Bryan Latrell , Wilson Kiesha , Cannon Alkeiver , Nagarkatti Mitzi , Nagarkatti Prakash S.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) is found in cruciferous vegetables and used as a dietary supplement. It is known to act as a ligand for aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). In the current study, we investigated the role of AhR and the ability of I3C to attenuate LPS-induced Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS).

Methods

To that end, we induced ARDS in wild-type C57BL/6 mice, Ccr2gfp/gfp KI/KO mice (mice deficient in the CCR2 receptor), and LyZcreAhRfl/fl mice (mice deficient in the AhR on myeloid linage cells). Additionally, mice were treated with I3C (65 mg/kg) or vehicle to investigate its efficacy to treat ARDS.

Results

I3C decreased the neutrophils expressing CXCR2, a receptor associated with neutrophil recruitment in the lungs. In addition, LPS-exposed mice treated with I3C revealed downregulation of CCR2+ monocytes in the lungs and lowered CCL2 (MCP-1) protein levels in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Loss of CCR2 on monocytes blocked the recruitment of CXCR2+ neutrophils and decreased the total number of immune cells in the lungs during ARDS. In addition, loss of the AhR on myeloid linage cells ablated I3C-mediated attenuation of CXCR2+ neutrophils and CCR2+ monocytes in the lungs from ARDS animals. Interestingly, scRNASeq showed that in macrophage/monocyte cell clusters of LPS-exposed mice, I3C reduced the expression of CXCL2 and CXCL3, which bind to CXCR2 and are involved in neutrophil recruitment to the disease site.

Discussion

These findings suggest that CCR2+ monocytes are involved in the migration and recruitment of CXCR2+ neutrophils during ARDS, and the AhR ligand, I3C, can suppress ARDS through the regulation of immune cell trafficking.
L-fucose and fucoidan alleviate high-salt diet-promoted acute inflammation
Authors: Li Wenhua , Wu Pengfei , Jin Tianrong , Jia Jialin , Chen Bo , Liu Tingting , Liu Yu , Mei Jie , Luo Bangwei , Zhang Zhiren
Published: March 2024

Excessive salt intake is a widespread health issue observed in almost every country around the world. A high salt diet (HSD) has a strong correlation with numerous diseases, including hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and autoimmune disorders. However, the mechanisms underlying HSD-promotion of inflammation and exacerbation of these diseases are not fully understood. In this study, we observed that HSD consumption reduced the abundance of the gut microbial metabolite L-fucose, leading to a more substantial inflammatory response in mice. A HSD led to increased peritonitis incidence in mice, as evidenced by the increased accumulation of inflammatory cells and elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1, also known as C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 or CCL2), in peritoneal lavage fluid. Following the administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics, HSD-induced inflammation was abolished, indicating that the proinflammatory effects of HSD were not due to the direct effect of sodium, but rather to HSD-induced alterations in the composition of the gut microbiota. By using untargeted metabolomics techniques, we determined that the levels of the gut microbial metabolite L-fucose were reduced by a HSD. Moreover, the administration of L-fucose or fucoidan, a compound derived from brown that is rich in L-fucose, normalized the level of inflammation in mice following HSD induction. In addition, both L-fucose and fucoidan inhibited LPS-induced macrophage activation in vitro. In summary, our research showed that reduced L-fucose levels in the gut contributed to HSD-exacerbated acute inflammation in mice; these results indicate that L-fucose and fucoidan could interfere with HSD-promotion of the inflammatory response.
Modelling of macrophage responses to biomaterials in vitro: state-of-the-art and the need for the improvement
Authors: Piatnitskaia Svetlana , Rafikova Guzel , Bilyalov Azat , Chugunov Svyatoslav , Akhatov Iskander , Pavlov Valentin , Kzhyshkowska Julia
Published: March 2024

The increasing use of medical implants in various areas of medicine, particularly in orthopedic surgery, oncology, cardiology and dentistry, displayed the limitations in long-term integration of available biomaterials. The effective functioning and successful integration of implants requires not only technical excellence of materials but also consideration of the dynamics of biomaterial interaction with the immune system throughout the entire duration of implant use. The acute as well as long-term decisions about the efficiency of implant integration are done by local resident tissue macrophages and monocyte-derived macrophages that start to be recruited during tissue damage, when implant is installed, and are continuously recruited during the healing phase. Our review summarized the knowledge about the currently used macrophages-based in vitro cells system that include murine and human cells lines and primary ex vivo differentiated macrophages. We provided the information about most frequently examined biomarkers for acute inflammation, chronic inflammation, foreign body response and fibrosis, indicating the benefits and limitations of the model systems. Particular attention is given to the scavenging function of macrophages that controls dynamic composition of peri-implant microenvironment and ensures timely clearance of microorganisms, cytokines, metabolites, extracellular matrix components, dying cells as well as implant debris. We outline the perspective for the application of 3D systems for modelling implant interaction with the immune system in human tissue-specific microenvironment avoiding animal experimentation.
Evaluation of cyanotoxin L-BMAA effect on α-synuclein and TDP43 proteinopathy
Authors: Sini Paola , Galleri Grazia , Ciampelli Cristina , Galioto Manuela , Padedda Bachisio Mario , Lugliè Antonella , Iaccarino Ciro , Crosio Claudia
Published: March 2024

The complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors is considered the cause of neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Among the environmental factors, toxins produced by cyanobacteria have received much attention due to the significant increase in cyanobacteria growth worldwide. In particular, L-BMAA toxin, produced by diverse taxa of cyanobacteria, dinoflagellates and diatoms, has been extensively correlated to neurodegeneration. The molecular mechanism of L-BMAA neurotoxicity is still cryptic and far from being understood. In this research article, we have investigated the molecular pathways altered by L-BMAA exposure in cell systems, highlighting a significant increase in specific stress pathways and an impairment in autophagic processes. Interestingly, these changes lead to the accumulation of both α-synuclein and TDP43, which are correlated with PD and ALS proteinopathy, respectively. Finally, we were able to demonstrate specific alterations of TDP43 WT or pathological mutants with respect to protein accumulation, aggregation and cytoplasmic translocation, some of the typical features of both sporadic and familial ALS.