bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding how professional development opportunities affect open educational resource sharing
Authors: Flowers Sharleen , Hazlett Zachary S. , Ramirez Marie , Treibergs Kira , Vinson Erin , Smith Michelle K. , Knight Jennifer K.
Published: August 2024

Background

Open Educational Resources (OERs) help instructors create innovative lessons and foster cost-effective and equitable access to educational materials. As more instructors turn to OERs to enhance their courses, there is a growing demand for the creation of more lesson plans.

Methods

To increase the number of high-quality OERs in undergraduate biology and physics, the journal CourseSource introduced Writing Studios to assist educators in writing and publishing OERs. Over a period of 5 years, 188 attendees participated in one of 11 different Writing Studios in which they followed a scaffolded worksheet to help draft their OER and engaged in peer review with partners. Attendees completed surveys before and after participation, and we tracked whether or not they published their manuscripts.

Results

We found that 38.8% of attendees shared their OERs through a CourseSource publication. Several characteristics predicted OER sharing through publication such as format of the workshop and attendee’s type of institution. Participants also described a variety of supports and barriers that impacted their ability to publish as well as possible long-term supports that would help bring resources to publication.

Discussion

This study highlights the importance of ongoing support and tailored strategies to facilitate the sharing of OERs. The findings can benefit instructors and professional development leaders who are committed to increasing the number of high-quality resources that are available.
Long-term evaluation of surface topographic and topsoil grain composition changes in an agricultural landscape
Authors: Halászová Klaudia , Lackóová Lenka , Panagopoulos Thomas
Published: August 2024

Understanding long-term changes in topography and topsoil grain composition is crucial for the management of agricultural landscapes, especially in areas prone to wind erosion. This study investigates long-term changes in topography and topsoil grain composition within an agricultural landscape in south-western Slovakia. To analyse topographic changes over time, we used high-precision positioning measurements and airborne laser scanning to create digital terrain models (DTM) for the years 2011, 2017 and 2020. To assess changes in soil grain composition, we performed grain size analyses on soil samples collected during three different periods: M1 (1961–1970), M2 (2009–2015) and M3 (2015–2016). Changes in soil texture were evaluated to understand the impact of wind erosion on soil composition. The influence of windbreaks was also analysed by comparing the accumulation and deflation processes. The results showed significant changes in both topography and soil texture over the study period. The DTMs showed marked differences in the accumulation and deflation processes, highlighting areas affected by wind erosion. Comparisons of soil samples showed a shift in dominant soil types from loam and clay loam to silty loam, highlighting the effects of wind erosion. Analysis revealed a decrease in clay and silt content and an increase in sand content, indicating wind-induced soil degradation. The presence of windbreaks played a crucial role in reducing soil erosion by reducing wind speed, promoting soil accumulation and stabilising the landscape up to 80 m windward and 20 m leeward. The study highlights the complex interplay of climate and wind factors in shaping topography and soil properties and emphasises the protective role of windbreaks in agricultural landscapes over time. Our results show that wind erosion significantly alters soil texture, which can affect agricultural productivity. However, windbreaks have proven to be an effective measure in reducing soil erosion and maintaining soil quality.
The role of pressure and friction forces in automated insertion of cochlear implants
Authors: Fröhlich Max , Deutz Jaro , Wangenheim Matthias , Rau Thomas S. , Lenarz Thomas , Kral Andrej , Schurzig Daniel
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Despite the success of cochlear implant (CI) surgery for hearing restoration, reducing CI electrode insertion forces is an ongoing challenge with the goal to further reduce post-implantation hearing loss. While research in this field shows that both friction and quasistatic pressure forces occur during CI insertion, there is a lack of studies distinguishing between these origins. The present study was conducted to analyze the contribution of both force phenomena during automated CI insertion.

Methods

Five MED-EL FLEX28 CI electrode arrays were inserted into both a regular and uncoiled version of the same average scala tympani (ST). Both ST models had a pressure release hole at the apical end, which was kept open or closed to quantify pressure forces. ST models were filled with different sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) lubricants (1, 5, and 10% SDS, water). The viscosity of lubricants was determined using a rheometer. Insertions were conducted with velocities ranging from v= 0.125 mm/s to 2.0 mm/s.

Results

Viscosity of SDS lubricants at 20°C was 1.28, 1.96, and 2.51 mPas for 1, 5, and 10% SDS, respectively, which lies within the values reported for human perilymph. In the uncoiled ST model, forces remained within the noise floor (maximum: 0.049 × 10−3 N ± 1.5 × 10−3 N), indicating minimal contribution from quasistatic pressure. Conversely, forces using the regular, coiled ST model were at least an order of magnitude larger (minimum: Fmax = 28.95 × 10−3 N, v = 1 mm/s, 10% SDS), confirming that friction forces are the main contributor to total insertion forces. An N-way ANOVA revealed that both lubricant viscosity and insertion speed significantly reduce insertion forces (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

For the first time, this study demonstrates that at realistic perilymph viscosities, quasistatic pressure forces minimally affect the total insertion force profile during insertion. Mixed friction is the main determinant, and significantly decreases with increaseing insertion speeds. This suggests that in clinical settings with similar ST geometries and surgical preparation, quasistatic pressure plays a subordinate role. Moreover, the findings indicate that managing the hydrodynamics of the cochlear environment, possibly through pre-surgical preparation or the use of specific lubricants, could effectively reduce insertion forces.
The loss of βΙ spectrin alters synaptic size and composition in the ja/ja mouse
Authors: Stankewich Michael C. , Peters Luanne L. , Morrow Jon S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Deletion or mutation of members of the spectrin gene family contributes to many neurologic and neuropsychiatric disorders. While each spectrinopathy may generate distinct neuropathology, the study of βΙ spectrin’s role (Sptb) in the brain has been hampered by the hematologic consequences of its loss.

Methods

Jaundiced mice (ja/ja) that lack βΙ spectrin suffer a rapidly fatal hemolytic anemia. We have used exchange transfusion of newborn ja/ja mice to blunt their hemolytic pathology, enabling an examination of βΙ spectrin deficiency in the mature mouse brain by ultrastructural and biochemical analysis.

Results

βΙ spectrin is widely utilized throughout the brain as the βΙΣ2 isoform; it appears by postnatal day 8, and concentrates in the CA1,3 region of the hippocampus, dentate gyrus, cerebellar granule layer, cortical layer 2, medial habenula, and ventral thalamus. It is present in a subset of dendrites and absent in white matter. Without βΙ spectrin there is a 20% reduction in postsynaptic density size in the granule layer of the cerebellum, a selective loss of ankyrinR in cerebellar granule neurons, and a reduction in the level of the postsynaptic adhesion molecule NCAM. While we find no substitution of another spectrin for βΙ at dendrites or synapses, there is curiously enhanced βΙV spectrin expression in the ja/ja brain.

Discussion

βΙΣ2 spectrin appears to be essential for refining postsynaptic structures through interactions with ankyrinR and NCAM. We speculate that it may play additional roles yet to be discovered.
Real-time motion artifact suppression using convolution neural networks with penalty in fNIRS
Authors: Huang Ruisen , Hong Keum-Shik , Bao Shi-Chun , Gao Fei
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Removing motion artifacts (MAs) from functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) signals is crucial in practical applications, but a standard procedure is not available yet. Artificial neural networks have found applications in diverse domains, such as voice and image processing, while their utility in signal processing remains limited.

Method

In this work, we introduce an innovative neural network-based approach for online fNIRS signals processing, tailored to individual subjects and requiring minimal prior experimental data. Specifically, this approach employs one-dimensional convolutional neural networks with a penalty network (1DCNNwP), incorporating a moving window and an input data augmentation procedure. In the training process, the neural network is fed with simulated data derived from the balloon model for simulation validation and semi-simulated data for experimental validation, respectively.

Results

Visual validation underscores 1DCNNwP’s capacity to effectively suppress MAs. Quantitative analysis reveals a remarkable improvement in signal-to-noise ratio by over 11.08 dB, surpassing the existing methods, including the spline-interpolation, wavelet-based, temporal derivative distribution repair with a 1 s moving window, and spline Savitzky-Goaly methods. Contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) analysis further demonstrated 1DCNNwP’s ability to restore or enhance CNRs for motionless signals. In the experiments of eight subjects, our method significantly outperformed the other approaches (except offline TDDR, t < −3.82, p < 0.01). With an average signal processing time of 0.53 ms per sample, 1DCNNwP exhibited strong potential for real-time fNIRS data processing.

Discussion

This novel univariate approach for fNIRS signal processing presents a promising avenue that requires minimal prior experimental data and adapts seamlessly to varying experimental paradigms.
KIF11 promotes vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation by regulating cell cycle progression and accelerates neointimal formation after arterial injury in mice
Authors: Wang Gengqiao , Zhao Peng , Yin Chuanzheng , Zheng Xichuan , Xie Yuhang , Li Xuan , Shang Dan , Shao Shuyu , Chen Hao , Wei Li , Song Zifang
Published: August 2024

Background and aims: One of the primary causes of lumen narrowing is vascular injury induced during medical procedures. Vascular injury disrupts the integrity of the endothelium, triggering platelet deposition, leukocyte recruitment, and the release of inflammatory factors. This, in turn, induces the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), leading to neointima formation. However, the molecular mechanism underlying VSMC proliferation following injury remains unknown. KIF11 is critical in regulating the cell cycle by forming bipolar spindles during mitotic metaphase. This process may contribute to VSMCs proliferation and neointima formation following vascular injury. Yet, the function of KIF11 in VSMCs has not been elucidated. This study aims to investigate the role and mechanisms of KIF11 in regulating VSMCs cycle progression and proliferation.

Methods: After conducting biological analysis of the transcriptome sequencing data from the mouse carotid artery injury model and the cell transcriptome data of PDGF-BB-induced VSMCs, we identified a potential target gene, KIF11, which may play a crucial role in vascular injury. Then we established a vascular injury model to investigate how changes in KIF11 expression and activity influence in vivo VSMCs proliferation and neointimal formation. In addition, we employed siRNA and specific inhibitors to suppress KIF11 expression and activity in VSMCs cultured in vitro to study the mechanisms underlying VSMCs cycle progression and proliferation.

Results: The results of immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence indicate a significant upregulation of KIF11 expression in the injured vascular. The intraperitoneal injection of the KIF11 specific inhibitor, K858, partially inhibits intimal hyperplasia in the vascular injury model. In vitro experiments further demonstrate that PDGF-BB upregulates KIF11 expression through the PI3K/AKT pathway, and enhances KIF11 activity. Inhibition of both KIF11 expression and activity partially reverses the pro-cycle progression and pro-proliferation effects of PDGF-BB on VSMCs. Additionally, KIF11 overexpression partially counteracts the proliferation arrest and cell cycle arrest induced by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT pathway in VSMCs.

Conclusion: Our study highlights the crucial role of KIF11 in regulating the cycle progression and proliferation of VSMCs after vascular injury. A comprehensive understanding of these mechanisms could pave the way for potential therapeutic interventions in treating vascular stenosis.
Role of Curcuma longae Rhizoma in medical applications: research challenges and opportunities
Authors: Zhang Peng , Liu Hong , Yu Yuan , Peng Shiyang , Zhu Shaomi
Published: August 2024

Curcuma longae Rhizoma, commonly known as turmeric, is extensively utilized not only in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) but also across various traditional medicine systems worldwide. It is renowned for its effectiveness in removing blood stasis, promoting blood circulation, and relieving pain. The primary bioactive metabolites of Curcuma longae Rhizoma—curcumin, β-elemene, curcumol, and curdione—have been extensively studied for their pharmacological benefits. These include anti-tumor properties, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular protection, immune regulation, liver protection, and their roles as analgesics, anti-inflammatories, antivirals, antibacterials, hypoglycemics, and antioxidants. This review critically examines the extensive body of research regarding the mechanisms of action of Curcuma longae Rhizoma, which engages multiple molecular targets and signaling pathways such as NF-κB, MAPKs, and PI3K/AKT. The core objective of this review is to assess how the main active metabolites of turmeric interact with these molecular systems to achieve therapeutic outcomes in various clinical settings. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges related to the bioavailability of these metabolites and explore potential methods to enhance their therapeutic effects. By doing so, this review aims to provide fresh insights into the optimization of Curcuma longae Rhizoma for broader clinical applications.
Chronic administration of prebiotics and probiotics ameliorates pathophysiological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease in a APP/PS1 transgenic mouse model
Authors: Lana Daniele , Traini Chiara , Bulli Irene , Sarti Giorgia , Magni Giada , Attorre Selene , Giovannini Maria Grazia , Vannucchi Maria Giuliana
Published: August 2024

Introduction: The gut microbiota (MB), although one of the main producers of Aβ in the body, in physiological conditions contributes to the maintainance of a healthy brain. Dysbiosis, the dysbalance between Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria in the MB increases Aβ production, contributing to the accumulation of Aβ plaques in the brain, the main histopathological hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Administration of prebiotics and probiotics, maintaining or recovering gut-MB composition, could represent a nutraceutical strategy to prevent or reduce AD sympthomathology. Aim of this research was to evaluate whether treatment with pre- and probiotics could modify the histopathological signs of neurodegeneration in hippocampal CA1 and CA3 areas of a transgenic mouse model of AD (APP/PS1 mice). The hippocampus is one of the brain regions involved in AD.

Methods: Tg mice and Wt littermates (Wt-T and Tg-T) were fed daily for 6 months from 2 months of age with a diet supplemented with prebiotics (a multi-extract of fibers and plant complexes, containing inulin/fruit-oligosaccharides) and probiotics (a 50%–50% mixture of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus paracasei). Controls were Wt and Tg mice fed with a standard diet. Brain sections were immunostained for Aβ plaques, neurons, astrocytes, microglia, and inflammatory proteins that were evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively by immunofluorescence, confocal microscopy and digital imaging with ImageJ software.

Results: Quantitative analyses demonstrated that: 1) The treatment with pre- and probiotics significantly decreased Aβ plaques in CA3, while in CA1 the reduction was not significant; 2) Neuronal damage in CA1 Stratum Pyramidalis was significantly prevented in Tg-T mice; no damage was found in CA3; 3) In both CA1 and CA3 the treatment significantly increased astrocytes density, and GFAP and IBA1 expression, especially around plaques; 4) Microglia reacted differently in CA1 and CA3: in CA3 of Tg-T mice there was a significant increase of CD68+ phagocytic microglia (ball-and-chain phenomic) and of CX3CR1 compared with CA1.

Discussion: The higher microglia reactivity could be responsible for their more efficient scavenging activity towards Aβ plaques in CA3 in comparison to CA1. Treatment with pre- and probiotics, modifying many of the physiopathological hallmarks of AD, could be considered an effective nutraceutical strategy against AD symptomatology.
Improved exercise ventilatory efficiency with nasal compared to oral breathing in cardiac patients
Authors: Prisca Eser , Pietro Calamai , Anja Kalberer , Laura Stuetz , Sarina Huber , Dominic Kaesermann , Sabina Guler , Matthias Wilhelm
Published: August 2024

Graphical Abstract

Presentation of the study groups and study protocol (top panels). Nasal breathing resulted in a pattern of slower and deeper breathing and a reduced ventilation to carbon dioxide production in all groups (lower panels).
A lightweight and efficient model for grape bunch detection and biophysical anomaly assessment in complex environments based on YOLOv8s
Authors: Yang Wenji , Qiu Xiaoying
Published: August 2024

As one of the most important economic crops, grapes have attracted considerable attention due to their high yield, rich nutritional value, and various health benefits. Identifying grape bunches is crucial for maintaining the quality and quantity of grapes, as well as managing pests and diseases. In recent years, the combination of automated equipment with object detection technology has been instrumental in achieving this. However, existing lightweight object detection algorithms often sacrifice detection precision for processing speed, which may pose obstacles in practical applications. Therefore, this thesis proposes a lightweight detection method named YOLOv8s-grape, which incorporates several effective improvement points, including modified efficient channel attention (MECA), slim-neck, new spatial pyramid pooling fast (NSPPF), dynamic upsampler (DySample), and intersection over union with minimum point distance (MPDIoU). In the proposed method, MECA and NSPPF enhance the feature extraction capability of the backbone, enabling it to better capture crucial information. Slim-neck reduces redundant features, lowers computational complexity, and effectively reuses shallow features to obtain more detailed information, further improving detection precision. DySample achieves excellent performance while maintaining lower computational costs, thus demonstrating high practicality and rapid detection capability. MPDIoU enhances detection precision through faster convergence and more precise regression results. Experimental results show that compared to other methods, this approach performs better in the grapevine bunch detection dataset and grapevine bunch condition detection dataset, with mean average precision (mAP50–95) increasing by 2.4% and 2.6% compared to YOLOv8s, respectively. Meanwhile, the computational complexity and parameters of the method are also reduced, with a decrease of 2.3 Giga floating-point operations per second and 1.5 million parameters. Therefore, it can be concluded that the proposed method, which integrates these improvements, achieves lightweight and high-precision detection, demonstrating its effectiveness in identifying grape bunches and assessing biophysical anomalies.
Evaluating the impact of ecological factors on the quality and habitat distribution of Lonicera japonica Flos using HPLC and the MaxEnt model
Authors: Cheng Jiali , Guo Fengxia , Wang Liyang , Li Zhigang , Zhou Chunyan , Wang Hongyan , Liang Wei , Jiang Xiaofeng , Chen Yuan , Dong Pengbin
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The quality of traditional Chinese medicine is based on the content of their secondary metabolites, which vary with habitat adaptation and ecological factors. This study focuses on Lonicera japonica Flos (LJF), a key traditional herbal medicine, and aims to evaluate how ecological factors impact its quality.

Methods

We developed a new evaluation method combining high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fingerprinting technology and MaxEnt models to assess the effects of ecological factors on LJF quality. The MaxEnt model was used to predict suitable habitats for current and future scenarios, while HPLC was employed to analyze the contents of key compounds. We also used ArcGIS for spatial analysis to create a quality zoning map.

Results

The analysis identified 21 common chromatographic peaks, with significant variations in the contents of Hyperoside, Rutin, Chlorogenic acid, Cynaroside, and Isochlorogenic acid A across different habitats. Key environmental variables influencing LJF distribution were identified, including temperature, precipitation, and elevation. The current suitable habitats primarily include regions south of the Yangtze River. Under future climate scenarios, suitable areas are expected to shift, with notable expansions in southern Gansu, southeastern Tibet, and southern Liaoning. The spatial distribution maps revealed that high-quality LJF is predominantly found in central and southern Hebei, northern Henan, central Shandong, central Sichuan, southern Guangdong, and Taiwan.

Discussion

The study indicates that suitable growth areas can promote the accumulation of certain secondary metabolites in plants, as the accumulation of these metabolites varies. The results underscore the necessity of optimizing quality based on cultivation practices. The integration of HPLC fingerprinting technology and the MaxEnt model provides valuable insights for the conservation and cultivation of herbal resources, offering a new perspective on evaluating the impact of ecological factors on the quality of traditional Chinese medicines.
Budgets and the timing, intensity, and composition of interest group lobbying in the U.S. states
Authors: de Figueiredo John M.
Published: August 2024

This paper examines state level lobbying data to determine how budgeting affects the timing, intensity and composition of lobbying expenditures. Using a database of all available lobbying expenditures in the U.S. states ranging up to 25 years, the paper shows interest group lobbying increases substantially during the budgeting process, and the budgeting process is unlike other issues lobbyists face. Spikes in lobbying during budgeting are driven primarily by business groups, and these business groups account for most of the changes on the margin in lobbying activity. Moreover, even groups relatively unaffected by budgets lobby more intensely during legislative budgeting, consistent with the “Christmas tree” effect of appropriations and budget bills.
Psychotherapy focusing on dialogical and narrative perspectives: a systematic review from qualitative and mixed-methods studies
Authors: Mellado Augusto , del Río María Teresa , Andreucci-Annunziata Paola , Molina María Elisa
Published: August 2024

Introduction

This systematic review identified qualitative and mixed-methods empirical studies on psychotherapy from dialogical and narrative approaches, aiming to address the following questions: (1) How are subjectivity and intersubjectivity qualitatively understood in dialogical and/or narrative psychotherapies studied using dialogical and narrative approaches? (2) How do therapeutic changes occur, including their facilitators and barriers? (3) What psychotherapeutic resources are available for psychotherapists in these types of studies?

Method

The articles were selected according to the Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and the eligibility criteria proposed by the PICOS strategy (participants, interventions, comparators, outcomes, and study design) from 163 records identified in the Web of Science Core Collection databases.

Results

The systematic review process allowed the selection of 16 articles. The results provided insights into the understanding of subjectivity, intersubjectivity, change in psychotherapy, its facilitators, and barriers from these perspectives. It also offered some therapeutic interventions that can be implemented in psychotherapies, integrating dialogical and/or narrative aspects.

Discussion

The centrality of dialogical exploration of patient/client resources, therapists as interlocutors fostering client agency, polyphony serving as scaffolding for change, and interconnection with the sociocultural environment are discussed. The integration of this latter topic has been a challenge for these types of studies, considering the active construction of shared meanings. The dialogical and narrative approaches focus psychotherapy on transforming meanings through dialogue and re-authoring stories, evolving within cultural and historical contexts. Thus, this study highlights the relevance of these perspectives in contemporary psychotherapy, emphasizing dialogue in co-creation within an intersubjective framework.
How enterprise social media usage links to counterproductive work behavior: the mediating role of workplace loneliness and the moderating role of ICT hassle
Authors: Zhou Jiayao , Cao Yu , Goh Mark , Kong Jiayang
Published: August 2024

Work context transformed. Employees increasingly interact with enterprise social media, wherein employees may feel disconnected from workplace. Drawing on social affiliation theory, we develop and examine a moderated mediation model to explore the indirect effect of enterprise social media usage on counterproductive work behavior (CWB) via workplace loneliness and the moderating role of information and communication technology hassle (ICT hassle). We test hypotheses by conducting a three-wave survey of 345 knowledge workers. Results indicate that enterprise social media usage has a positive effect on workplace loneliness, and workplace loneliness mediated the indirect effect of enterprise social media usage on CWB. The moderated mediation analysis indicated that ICT hassle positively moderates the above mediation effect. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of our findings.
Self-attention with temporal prior: can we learn more from the arrow of time?
Authors: Kim Kyung Geun , Lee Byeong Tak
Published: August 2024

Many diverse phenomena in nature often inherently encode both short- and long-term temporal dependencies, which especially result from the direction of the flow of time. In this respect, we discovered experimental evidence suggesting that interrelations of these events are higher for closer time stamps. However, to be able for attention-based models to learn these regularities in short-term dependencies, it requires large amounts of data, which are often infeasible. This is because, while they are good at learning piece-wise temporal dependencies, attention-based models lack structures that encode biases in time series. As a resolution, we propose a simple and efficient method that enables attention layers to better encode the short-term temporal bias of these data sets by applying learnable, adaptive kernels directly to the attention matrices. We chose various prediction tasks for the experiments using Electronic Health Records (EHR) data sets since they are great examples with underlying long- and short-term temporal dependencies. Our experiments show exceptional classification results compared to best-performing models on most tasks and data sets.
ProtectaBEE® and bee vectoring: innovating hive-based health with inspensing technology for sustainable apiculture
Authors: Shelley Erica , Brown Tasmin , Karthikeyan Aparna , Kevan Peter
Published: August 2024

Apivectoring, or bee vectoring, employs managed bees to distribute powders containing disease and pest-fighting biocontrol agents during pollination flights to crops. Our research introduces a novel application of this concept, termed inspensing, which leverages bee vectoring for hive-based benefits. In inspensing, bees traverse through a carrier powder combined with products aimed at combating pathogens or pests within the hive. To facilitate this, we developed the ProtectaBEE® system, an innovative beehive-entrance technology that guides bees through a compartment inoculated with an inspensing powder. This system facilitates the application of beneficial agents into the hive without the need for beekeepers to open the hive, thereby streamlining the treatment process and reducing hive disturbance. To analyze the effectiveness of the system, we employed a fluorescent tracer in a powder formulation for tracking distribution throughout the hive. Complementing this, we inspensed a living dry powder-formulated biocontrol agent, Beauveria bassiana, an entomopathogenic fungus known to reduce Varroa mite populations, and detected its presence in the hive using PCR. The fluorescent powder was detected in 78.8% of the samples while B. bassiana was confirmed in up to 86.2% of larvae and 91.7% of mites. Our results underscore the system's efficacy in delivering material throughout the hive and affirm the potential for inspensing dry-powder-formulated biocontrol agents to manage Varroa destructor. Inspensing paves new paths for optimizing bee health and pest control strategies, streamlining disease management, simplifying hive maintenance, and minimizing beekeeper intervention, all contributing to sustainable apiculture.
Breaking challenges: queer perspectives on solutions to establish inclusive sexual-reproductive healthcare in Gauteng Province, South Africa
Authors: Seretlo Raikane James , Mokgatle Mathildah Mpata , Smuts Hanlie
Published: August 2024

Introduction

In South Africa’s diverse population, queer voices emerge as change agents, proposing new and critical solutions to reform sexual and reproductive healthcare services in the pursuit of inclusivity and equality. Our research aimed to explore and describe queer individuals’ perceptions and solutions for promoting sexual-reproductive healthcare services and needs (SRHSN) in Gauteng Province, South Africa.

Methodology

An explorative-descriptive study was performed for this research. A total of 22 queer individuals was recruited using respondent-driven sampling (RDS) within a queer-inclusive non-governmental organization (NGO) clinic in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Semi-structured interviews and an interview guide were utilized to collect data using English. Thematic content analysis was applied using NVivo 14.

Results

Four main themes and related sub-themes were revealed from the study including the creation of healthcare equity for queer individuals, empowering and supporting healthcare providers (HCPs) to enhance skills, knowledge, and expertise, raising awareness on queer-related issues, and different stakeholders’ involvement.

Conclusion

As we navigate South Africa’s complex landscape of SRHSN for queer individuals, the crucial opinions and solutions offered by queer people not only challenge the status quo but also reveal an approach to a better, more equitable, empathetic, and accommodating healthcare system for everyone. Future studies should ensure the inclusiveness of queer individuals with the interest of improving their health not just for research outputs.
Why do rural youth migrate? Evidence from Colombia and Guatemala
Authors: Díaz Baca Manuel Francisco , Moreno Lerma Leonardo , Burkart Stefan , Triana Ángel Natalia
Published: August 2024

Migration, from rural to urban settings is a common phenomenon in Latin America, due to social, economic, political, and other factors. Young people in search of economic and educational opportunities, financial, and social stability, have been migrating to larger urban centers, thus crafting important shifts in rural labor, generational transfer, and domestic economies. Through a systematic literature review of scientific literature, and documents from public institutions and international organizations, published between 2012 and 2022, this article addresses rural–urban migration of youth in Colombia and Guatemala’s cattle sector, particularly identifying (i) driving factors, (ii) their impacts on cattle farming, and (iii) public policies implemented to counteract prejudicial effects. Results show that unemployment, lack of educational opportunities, and insecurity are the main reasons for youth migration to cities or abroad, with Mexico, the United States, and Spain being the most common destinations. Additionally, impacts on the cattle sector include shortage of labor and a perfectible generational transfer, hindering the modernization of the industry and investments in climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies. Despite various implemented public policies, the results are partial, and the issue of accelerated youth migration remains relevant. Consequently, without more effective measures adopted by national governments, the cattle sector will lag behind its regional and international competitors, deterring the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. As the main contribution of the study, the analysis of migration is highlighted based on its effects on a specific economic sector and not focused on its causes, as evidenced in a wide range of literature.
The Anticancer Activity of Monosaccharides: Perspectives and Outlooks
Authors: McCallum Niamh , Najlah Mohammad
Published: August 2024

A major hallmark of cancer is the reprogramming of cellular metabolism from oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) to glycolysis, a phenomenon known as the Warburg effect. To sustain high rates of glycolysis, cancer cells overexpress GLUT transporters and glycolytic enzymes, allowing for the enhanced uptake and consumption of glucose. The Warburg effect may be exploited in the treatment of cancer; certain epimers and derivatives of glucose can enter cancer cells and inhibit glycolytic enzymes, stunting metabolism and causing cell death. These include common dietary monosaccharides (ᴅ-mannose, ᴅ-galactose, ᴅ-glucosamine, ʟ-fucose), as well as some rare monosaccharides (xylitol, ᴅ-allose, ʟ-sorbose, ʟ-rhamnose). This article reviews the literature on these sugars in in vitro and in vivo models of cancer, discussing their mechanisms of cytotoxicity. In addition to this, the anticancer potential of some synthetically modified monosaccharides, such as 2-deoxy-ᴅ-glucose and its acetylated and halogenated derivatives, is reviewed. Further, this article reviews how certain monosaccharides can be used in combination with anticancer drugs to potentiate conventional chemotherapies and to help overcome chemoresistance. Finally, the limitations of administering two separate agents, a sugar and a chemotherapeutic drug, are discussed. The potential of the glycoconjugation of classical or repurposed chemotherapy drugs as a solution to these limitations is reviewed.
The Role of Radiotherapy, Chemotherapy, and Targeted Therapies in Adult Intramedullary Spinal Cord Tumors
Authors: Esparragosa Vazquez Ines , Ducray François
Published: August 2024

Intramedullary primary spinal cord tumors are rare in adults and their classification has recently evolved. Their treatment most frequently relies on maximal safe surgical resection. Herein, we review, in light of the WHO 2021 classification of central nervous system tumors, the knowledge regarding the role of radiotherapy and systemic treatments in spinal ependymomas, spinal astrocytomas (pilocytic astrocytoma, diffuse astrocytoma, spinal glioblastoma IDH wildtype, diffuse midline glioma H3-K27M altered, and high-grade astrocytoma with piloid features), neuro-glial tumors (ganglioglioma and diffuse leptomeningeal glioneuronal tumor), and hemangioblastomas. In spinal ependymomas, radiotherapy is recommended for incompletely resected grade 2 tumors, grade 3 tumors, and recurrent tumors not amenable to re-surgery. Chemotherapy is used in recurrent cases. In spinal astrocytomas, radiotherapy is recommended for incompletely resected grade 2 astrocytomas and grade 3 or 4 tumors as well as recurrent tumors. Chemotherapy is indicated for newly diagnosed high-grade astrocytomas and recurrent cases. In hemangioblastomas not amenable to surgery, radiotherapy is an effective alternative option. Targeted therapies are playing an increasingly important role in the management of some intramedullary primary spinal cord tumor subtypes. BRAF and/or MEK inhibitors have demonstrated efficacy in pilocytic astrocytomas and glioneuronal tumors, belzutifan in von Hippel–Lindau-related hemangioblastomas, and promising results have been reported with ONC201 in diffuse midline glioma H3-K27M altered.
Are COVID-19 Polymorphisms in ACE and ACE2 Prognosis Predictors?
Authors: Guarienti Fabiana Amaral , Xavier Fernando Antônio Costa , Ferraz Mateus Duarte , Wagner Fernanda , Marinowic Daniel Rodrigo , da Costa Jaderson Costa , Machado Denise Cantarelli
Published: August 2024

Regardless of the containment of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, it remains paramount to comprehensively understand its underlying mechanisms to mitigate potential future health and economic impacts, comparable to those experienced throughout the course of the pandemic. The angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) provides anchorage for SARS-CoV-2 binding, thus implicating that ACE and ACE2 might contribute to the variability in infection severity. This study aimed to elucidate predisposing factors influencing the disease course among people infected by SARS-CoV-2, focusing on angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and ACE2 polymorphisms. Notably, despite similar demographics and comorbidities, COVID-19 patients exhibit substantial differences in prognosis. Genetic polymorphisms in ACE and ACE2 have been implicated in disease progression, prompting our investigation into their role in COVID-19 evolution. Using next-generation sequencing (NGS), we analyzed ACE and ACE2 genes in a sample group comprising six subjects infected by SARS-CoV-2. Our findings revealed a correlation between specific polymorphisms and COVID-19 outcomes. Specifically, ACE and ACE2 intronic deletions were observed in all deceased patients, suggesting a potential association with mortality. These results highlight the significance of genetic factors in shaping the clinical course of COVID-19, emphasizing the importance of further research into the impact of genetic variations on COVID-19 severity.
Ontogeny of Skin Stem Cells and Molecular Underpinnings
Authors: Dermitzakis Iasonas , Kampitsi Despoina Dimitria , Manthou Maria Eleni , Evangelidis Paschalis , Vakirlis Efstratios , Meditskou Soultana , Theotokis Paschalis
Published: August 2024

Skin stem cells (SCs) play a pivotal role in supporting tissue homeostasis. Several types of SCs are responsible for maintaining and regenerating skin tissue. These include bulge SCs and others residing in the interfollicular epidermis, infundibulum, isthmus, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands. The emergence of skin SCs commences during embryogenesis, where multipotent SCs arise from various precursor populations. These early events set the foundation for the diverse pool of SCs that will reside in the adult skin, ready to respond to tissue repair and regeneration demands. A network of molecular cues regulates skin SC behavior, balancing quiescence, self-renewal, and differentiation. The disruption of this delicate equilibrium can lead to SC exhaustion, impaired wound healing, and pathological conditions such as skin cancer. The present review explores the intricate mechanisms governing the development, activation, and differentiation of skin SCs, shedding light on the molecular signaling pathways that drive their fate decisions and skin homeostasis. Unraveling the complexities of these molecular drivers not only enhances our fundamental knowledge of skin biology but also holds promise for developing novel strategies to modulate skin SC fate for regenerative medicine applications, ultimately benefiting patients with skin disorders and injuries.
Rising Prevalence of Low-Frequency PPM1D Gene Mutations after Second HDCT in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Seipel Katja , Veglio Nuria Z. , Nilius Henning , Jeker Barbara , Bacher Ulrike , Pabst Thomas
Published: August 2024

Multiple myeloma (MM) first-line treatment algorithms include immuno-chemotherapy (ICT) induction, high-dose chemotherapy (HDCT) and autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) consolidation, followed by lenalidomide maintenance. After these initial therapies, most patients suffer a disease relapse and require subsequent treatment lines including ICT, additional HDCT and ASCT, or novel immunotherapies. The presence of somatic mutations in peripheral blood cells has been associated with adverse outcomes in a variety of hematological malignancies. Nonsense and frameshift mutations in the PPM1D gene, a frequent driver alteration in clonal hematopoiesis (CH), lead to the gain-of-function of Wip1 phosphatase, which may impair the p53-dependent G1 checkpoint and promote cell proliferation. Here, we determined the presence of PPM1D gene mutations in peripheral blood cells of 75 subsequent myeloma patients in remission after first or second HDCT/ASCT. The prevalence of truncating PPM1D gene mutations emerged at 1.3% after first HDCT/ASCT, and 7.3% after second HDCT/ASCT, with variant allele frequencies (VAF) of 0.01 to 0.05. Clinical outcomes were inferior in the PPM1D-mutated (PPM1Dmut) subset with median progression-free survival (PFS) of 15 vs. 37 months (p = 0.0002) and median overall survival (OS) of 36 vs. 156 months (p = 0.001) for the PPM1Dmut and PPM1Dwt population, respectively. Our data suggest that the occurrence of PPM1D gene mutations in peripheral blood cells correlates with inferior outcomes after ASCT in patients with multiple myeloma.
Regulatory Assessment of Casgevy for the Treatment of Transfusion-Dependent β-Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Disease with Recurrent Vaso-Occlusive Crises
Authors: Kerwash Essam , Sajic Marija , Rantell Khadija Rerhou , McBlane James W. , Johnston John D. , Niewiarowska Alison , Butler Andrew S. , Cole Susan
Published: August 2024

Sickle cell disease (SCD) and transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDT) are hereditary haemoglobinopathies characterized by a reduction in functional β-globin chains. Both conditions cause tiredness and increase susceptibility to infection, which can lead organ failure, significantly reducing life expectancy and typically requiring those affected to undergo regular erythrocyte transfusion. Recently, a novel therapeutic treatment for SCD and TDT was approved by the UK regulatory body (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency; MHRA). Exagamglogene autotemcel (Casgevy) is the first licensed therapy globally to utilize CRIPSR/Cas9 technology and induces an increase in expression of γ-globin chains to compensate for the reduction in functional β-globin. Casgevy represents a first-in-class therapeutic, and numerous considerations were made by the MHRA throughout its assessment of the medicine. These include, but are not limited to, the risk of tumorigenicity and off-target editing, a limited cohort size, the validity of proposed dosing and the conduction of only single-arm studies. The MHRA’s analyses of the data to support the proposed indications are presented and discussed throughout this manuscript. Overall, the sponsors claims were considered well supported by their data, and Casgevy was licensed for the treatment of TDT or SCD in patients 12 years of age and older for whom hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation is appropriate, but a human leukocyte antigen-matched related HSC donor is not available.
Effects of Ulmus macrocarpa Extract and Catechin 7-O-β-D-apiofuranoside on Muscle Loss and Muscle Atrophy in C2C12 Murine Skeletal Muscle Cells
Authors: Kim Min Seok , Park Sunmin , Kwon Yeeun , Kim TaeHee , Lee Chan Ho , Jang HyeonDu , Kim Eun Ji , Jung Jae In , Min Sangil , Park Kwang-Hyun , Choi Sun Eun
Published: August 2024

Muscle atrophy is known to be one of the symptoms leading to sarcopenia, which significantly impacts the quality of life, mortality, and morbidity. Therefore, the development of therapeutics for muscle atrophy is essential. This study focuses on addressing muscle loss and atrophy using Ulmus macrocarpa extract and its marker compound, catechin 7-O-β-D-apiofuranoside, by investigating their effects on biomarkers associated with muscle cell apoptosis. Additionally, protein and gene expression in a muscle atrophy model were examined using Western blotting and RT-PCR. Ulmus macrocarpa has been used as food or medicine due to its safety, including its roots, barks, and fruit. Catechin 7-O-β-D apiofuranoside is an indicator substance of plants of the Ulmus genus and has been reported to have various effects such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The experimental results demonstrated that catechin glycoside and Ulmus macrocarpa extract decreased the expression of the muscle-degradation-related proteins Atrogin-1 and Muscle RING-Finger protein-1 (MuRF1) while increasing the expression of the muscle-synthesis-related proteins Myoblast determination (MyoD) and Myogenin. Gene expression confirmation experiments validated a decrease in the expression of Atrogin and MuRF1 mRNA and an increase in the expression of MyoD and Myogenin mRNA. Furthermore, an examination of muscle protein expression associated with the protein kinase B (Akt)/forkhead box O (FoxO) signaling pathway confirmed a decrease in the expression of FoxO, a regulator of muscle protein degradation. These results confirm the potential of Ulmus macrocarpa extract to inhibit muscle apoptosis, prevent muscle decomposition, and promote the development of functional materials for muscle synthesis, health-functional foods, and natural-product-derived medicines.
Advancements in Understanding the Hide-and-Seek Strategy of Hibernating Breast Cancer Cells and Their Implications in Oncology from a Broader Perspective: A Comprehensive Overview
Authors: Al-Ruwishan Aiman , Amer Bushra , Salem Ahmed , Abdi Ahmed , Chimpandu Namoonga , Esa Abdelmonem , Melemenis Alexandros , Saleem Muhammad Zubair , Mathew Roselit , Gamallat Yaser
Published: August 2024

Despite recent advancements in technology, breast cancer still poses a significant threat, often resulting in fatal consequences. While early detection and treatments have shown some promise, many breast cancer patients continue to struggle with the persistent fear of the disease returning. This fear is valid, as breast cancer cells can lay dormant for years before remerging, evading traditional treatments like a game of hide and seek. The biology of these dormant breast cancer cells presents a crucial yet poorly understood challenge in clinical settings. In this review, we aim to explore the mysterious world of dormant breast cancer cells and their significant impact on patient outcomes and prognosis. We shed light on the elusive role of the G9a enzyme and many other epigenetic factors in breast cancer recurrence, highlighting its potential as a target for eliminating dormant cancer cells and preventing disease relapse. Through this comprehensive review, we not only emphasise the urgency of unravelling the dynamics of dormant breast cancer cells to improve patient outcomes and advance personalised oncology but also provide a guide for fellow researchers. By clearly outlining the clinical and research gaps surrounding dormant breast cancer cells from a molecular perspective, we aim to inspire further exploration of this critical area, ultimately leading to improved patient care and treatment strategies.