bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An eQTL-based approach reveals candidate regulators of LINE-1 RNA levels in lymphoblastoid cells
Authors: Bravo Juan I. , Mizrahi Chanelle R. , Kim Seungsoo , Zhang Lucia , Suh Yousin , Benayoun Bérénice A.
Published: June 2024

Long interspersed element 1 (LINE-1; L1) are a family of transposons that occupy ~17% of the human genome. Though a small number of L1 copies remain capable of autonomous transposition, the overwhelming majority of copies are degenerate and immobile. Nevertheless, both mobile and immobile L1s can exert pleiotropic effects (promoting genome instability, inflammation, or cellular senescence) on their hosts, and L1’s contributions to aging and aging diseases is an area of active research. However, because of the cell type-specific nature of transposon control, the catalogue of L1 regulators remains incomplete. Here, we employ an eQTL approach leveraging transcriptomic and genomic data from the GEUVADIS and 1000Genomes projects to computationally identify new candidate regulators of L1 RNA levels in lymphoblastoid cell lines. To cement the role of candidate genes in L1 regulation, we experimentally modulate the levels of top candidates in vitro, including IL16, STARD5, HSD17B12, and RNF5, and assess changes in TE family expression by Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Remarkably, we observe subtle but widespread upregulation of TE family expression following IL16 and STARD5 overexpression. Moreover, a short-term 24-hour exposure to recombinant human IL16 was sufficient to transiently induce subtle, but widespread, upregulation of L1 subfamilies. Finally, we find that many L1 expression-associated genetic variants are co-associated with aging traits across genome-wide association study databases. Our results expand the catalogue of genes implicated in L1 RNA control and further suggest that L1-derived RNA contributes to aging processes. Given the ever-increasing availability of paired genomic and transcriptomic data, we anticipate this new approach to be a starting point for more comprehensive computational scans for regulators of transposon RNA levels.
Identification and characterisation of Mansonella perstans in the Volta Region of Ghana
Authors: Opoku Millicent , de Souza Dziedzom K.
Published: June 2024

Mansonella spp. have been reported to have a wide global distribution. Despite the distribution and co-occurrence with other filarial parasites like Wuchereria bancrofti, Onchocerca volvulus and Loa loa, it is given little attention. There are few surveillance programmes for assessing the distribution of mansonellosis, due to the associated mild to no symptoms experienced by infected people. However, addressing this infection is critical to the onchocerciasis control program as current rapid diagnostic tools targeting O. volvulus have the tendency to cross react with Mansonella species. In this study we identified and characterised M. perstans from five sites in two districts in the Volta Region of Ghana and compared them to samples from other regions. Night blood smears and filter blood blots were obtained from individuals as part of a study on lymphatic filariasis. The Giemsa-stained smears were screened by microscopy for the presence of filarial parasites. Genomic DNA was extracted from blood blots from 39 individuals that were positive for M. perstans and Nested PCR targeting the internal spacer 1 (ITS-1) was conducted. Of these, 30 were sequenced and 24 sequences were kept for further analysis. Phylogenetic analysis of 194 nucleotide positions showed no differences in the samples collected. The similarities suggests that there could be one species in this area. However, more robust studies with larger sample sizes are required to draw such conclusions. We also observed a clustering of the samples from Ghana with reference sequences from Africa and Brazil, suggesting they could be related. This study draws further attention to a neglected infection, presents the first characterisation of M. perstans in Ghana and calls for more population-based studies across different geographical zones to ascertain species variations and disease distribution.
Does cardiorespiratory fitness mediate or moderate the association between mid-life physical activity frequency and cognitive function? findings from the 1958 British birth cohort study
Authors: Norris Tom , Mitchell John J. , Blodgett Joanna M. , Hamer Mark , Pinto Pereira Snehal M.
Published: June 2024

Background

Physical activity (PA) is associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline and all-cause dementia in later life. Pathways underpinning this association are unclear but may involve either mediation and/or moderation by cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF).

Methods

Data on PA frequency (exposure) at 42y, non-exercise testing CRF (NETCRF, mediator/moderator) at 45y and overall cognitive function (outcome) at 50y were obtained from 9,385 participants (50.8% female) in the 1958 British birth cohort study. We used a four-way decomposition approach to examine the relative contributions of mediation and moderation by NETCRF on the association between PA frequency at 42y and overall cognitive function at 50y.

Results

In males, the estimated overall effect of 42y PA ≥once per week (vs. <once per week) was a 0.08 (95% confidence interval: 0.04,0.13) higher overall cognitive function z-score at 50y. The estimated controlled direct effect was similar (0.08 (0.03, 0.12)). Thus, the proportion of the estimated effect via mediation or moderation by NETCRF was small (~3%), with confidence intervals straddling the null. In females, there was no estimated overall effect of PA frequency on overall cognitive function.

Conclusion

We present the first evidence from a four-way decomposition analysis of the potential contribution that CRF plays in the relationship between mid-life PA frequency and subsequent cognitive function. Our lack of evidence in support of CRF mediating or moderating the PA frequency―cognitive function association suggests that other pathways underpin this association.
Diagnosis of urinary tract infections in the hospitalized older adult population in Alberta
Authors: Lui Samantha , Carr Frances , Gibson William
Published: June 2024

Background

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common infections reported in older adults, across all settings. Although a diagnosis of a UTI requires specific clinical and microbiological criteria, many older adults are diagnosed with a UTI without meeting the diagnostic criteria, resulting in unnecessary antibiotic treatment and their potential side effects, and a failure to find the true cause of their presentation to hospital.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of UTI diagnoses amongst hospitalized older adults based on clinical and microbiological findings, and their corresponding antibiotic treatment (including complications), in addition to identifying possible factors associated with a confirmed UTI diagnosis.

Methods

A single-center retrospective cross-sectional study of older adult patients (n = 238) hospitalized at the University of Alberta Hospital with an admission diagnosis of UTI over a one-year period was performed.

Results

44.6% (n = 106) of patients had a diagnosis of UTI which was supported by documents clinical and microbiological findings while 43.3% (n = 103) of patients had bacteriuria without documented symptoms. 54.2% (n = 129) of all patients were treated with antibiotics, despite not having evidence to support a diagnosis of a UTI, with 15.9% (n = 37) of those patients experiencing complications including diarrhea, Clostridioides difficile infection, and thrush. History of major neurocognitive disorder was significantly associated with diagnosis of UTI (p = 0.003).

Conclusion

UTIs are commonly misdiagnosed in hospitalized older adults by healthcare providers, resulting in the majority of such patients receiving unnecessary antibiotics, increasing the risk of complications. These findings will allow for initiatives to educate clinicians on the importance of UTI diagnosis in an older adult population and appropriately prescribing antibiotics to prevent unwanted complications.
Cognitive-Cognitive Dual-task in aging: A cross-sectional online study
Authors: Contemori Giulio , Saccani Maria Silvia , Bonato Mario
Published: June 2024

The prevalence of neurodegenerative disorders, particularly dementia, is on the rise across many countries worldwide. This negative trend calls for improving our understanding of cognitive aging. While motor-cognitive dual-task approaches have already been proven valuable for clinical diagnosis, comparatively less research is available on the application of Cognitive-Cognitive Dual-Tasking (CCDT), across several cognitive domains. Moreover, there is limited understanding about how healthy aging affects performance in such dual-tasks in the general population. CCDT entails engaging individuals in multiple cognitive tasks simultaneously and holds promise for remote e-Health interventions. In this cross-sectional study, our objective was to evaluate the suitability of a newly developed, self-administered, online tool for examining age-related differences in memory performance under dual-tasking. 337 healthy adults aged 50–90 underwent a visual memory test (Memo) under both single and dual-task conditions (attend to auditory letters). Additional measures included questionnaires on subjective memory complaints (MAC-Q), on cognitive reserve (CR), and a cognitive screening (auto-GEMS). As expected, the accuracy of visual memory performance exhibited a negative correlation with age and MAC-Q, and a positive correlation with CR and auto-GEMS scores. Dual-tasking significantly impaired performance, and its detrimental effect decreased with increasing age. Furthermore, the protective effect of cognitive reserve diminished with advancing age. These findings suggest that the commonly observed age-related increase in dual-task costs is not universally applicable across all tasks and cognitive domains. With further refinement, a longitudinal implementation of this approach may assist in identifying individuals with a distinct cognitive trajectory and potentially at a higher risk of developing cognitive decline.
Investigation of the status of rest facilities at industrial sites and awareness of relevant laws and regulations of South Korea
Authors: Jeong Yeon-Hee , Lee Woo-Je , Kim Ki-Youn
Published: June 2024

South Korea has faced many social issues due to long working hours, lack of rest areas, and poor rest facility environments for cleaners, security guards, department store workers, etc. Discussions have been ongoing about mandating the installation of rest facilities. From August 18, 2022, Article 128–2 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, concerning the installation of rest facilities, was enforced. Consequently, employers in all industries are required to install rest facilities, and laws have been established to ensure these facilities meet certain standards. Accordingly, this study investigated the current status of rest facility installations and the awareness of the law’s enactment in Korean industrial sites. The results, analyzed by gender, age, managerial status, industry, and size of the business, indicated that younger people were less satisfied with the rest facilities. Managers were more knowledgeable about the legal regulations than workers. In the service industry, compared to other industries, smaller businesses were less likely to have rest facilities and were less aware of the legal regulations. The results of this study are expected to be used as basic data to help establish the rest facility installation laws in Korea.
Advancing aquaculture: Production of xenogenic catfish by transplanting blue catfish (Ictalurus furcatus) and channel catfish (I. punctatus) stem cells into white catfish (Ameiurus catus) triploid fry
Authors: Hettiarachchi Darshika Udari , Alston Veronica N. , Bern Logan , Al-Armanazi Jacob , Su Baofeng , Shang Mei , Wang Jinhai , Xing De , Li Shangjia , Litvak Matthew K. , Dunham Rex A. , Butts Ian A. E.
Published: June 2024

Xenogenesis has been recognized as a prospective method for producing channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus ♀ × blue catfish, I. furcatus ♂ hybrids. The xenogenesis procedure can be achieved by transplanting undifferentiated stem cells derived from a donor fish into a sterile recipient. Xenogenesis for hybrid catfish embryo production has been accomplished using triploid channel catfish as a surrogate. However, having a surrogate species with a shorter maturation period, like white catfish (Ameiurus catus), would result in reduced feed costs, labor costs, and smaller body size requirements, making it a more suitable species for commercial applications where space is limited, and as a model species. Hence, the present study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of triploid white catfish as a surrogate species to transplant blue catfish stem cells (BSCs) and channel catfish stem cells (CSCs). Triploid white catfish fry were injected with either BSCs or CSCs labeled with PKH 26 fluorescence dye from 0 to 12 days post hatch (DPH). No significant differences in weight and length of fry were detected among BSCs and CSCs injection times (0 to 12 DPH) when fry were sampled at 45 and 90 DPH (P > 0.05). The highest survival was reported when fry were injected between 4.0 to 5.5 DPH (≥ 81.2%). At 45 and 90 DPH, cell and cluster area increased for recipients injected from 0 to 5.2 DPH, and the highest cluster area values were reported between 4.0 to 5.2 DPH. Thereafter, fluorescent cell and cluster area in the host declined with no further decrease after 10 DPH. At 45 DPH, the highest percentage of xenogens were detected when fry were injected with BSCs between 4.0 to 5.0 and CSCs between 3.0 to 5.0 DPH. At 90 DPH, the highest number of xenogens were detected from 4.0 to 6.0 DPH when injected with either BSCs or CSCs. The current study demonstrated the suitability of white catfish as a surrogate species when BSCs and CSCs were transplanted into triploid white catfish between 4.0 to 6.0 DPH (27.4 ± 0.4°C). Overall, these findings allow enhanced efficiency of commercializing xenogenic catfish carrying gametes of either blue catfish or channel catfish.
Exploring the role of the social vulnerability index in understanding COVID-19 immunization rates
Authors: Chien Lung-Chang , Marquez Erika Raquel , Smith Samantha , Tu Tiana , Haboush-Deloye Amanda
Published: June 2024

Communities that are historically marginalized and minoritized were disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic due to long-standing social inequities. It was found that those who experience social vulnerabilities faced a heightened burden of COVID-19 morbidities and mortalities and concerningly lower rates of COVID-19 vaccination. The CDC’s Social Vulnerability Index (CDC-SVI) is a pivotal tool for planning responses to health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This study explores the associations between CDC-SVI and its corresponding themes with COVID-19 vaccine uptake in Nevada counties. Additionally, the study discusses the utility of the CDC-SVI in the context of equitable vaccine uptake in a pandemic setting. We examined the linear association between the 2020 CDC-SVI (including the composite score and the four themes) and COVID-19 vaccine uptake (including initial and complete vaccinations) for the seventeen Nevada counties. These associations were further examined for spatial-varied effects. Each CDC-SVI theme was negatively correlated with initial and complete COVID-19 vaccine uptake (crude) except for minority status, which was positively correlated. However, all correlations were found to be weak. Excessive vaccination rates among some counties are not explained by the CDC-SVI. Overall, these findings suggest the CDC-SVI themes are a better predictor of COVID-19 vaccine uptake than the composite SVI score at the county level. Our findings are consistent with similar studies. The CDC-SVI is a useful measure for public health preparedness, but with limitations. Further understanding is needed of which measures of social vulnerability impact health outcomes.
Design and preliminary verification of a novel powered ankle–foot prosthesis: From the perspective of lower-limb biomechanics compared with ESAR foot
Authors: Liu Jingjing , Liu Jingang , Cheah Pei Yi , Al Kouzbary Mouaz , Al Kouzbary Hamza , Yao Selina X. , Shasmin Hanie Nadia , Arifin Nooranida , Razak Nasrul Anuar Abd , Abu Osman Noor Azuan
Published: June 2024

A novel powered ankle–foot prosthesis is designed. The effect of wearing the novel prosthesis and an energy-storage-and-return (ESAR) foot on lower-limb biomechanics is investigated to preliminarily evaluate the design. With necessary auxiliary materials, a non-amputated subject (a rookie at using prostheses) is recruited to walk on level ground with an ESAR and the novel powered prostheses separately. The results of the stride characteristics, the ground reaction force (GRF) components, kinematics, and kinetics in the sagittal plane are compared. Wearing the powered prosthesis has less prolongation of the gait cycle on the unaffected side than wearing the ESAR foot. Wearing ESAR or proposed powered prostheses influences the GRF, kinematics, and kinetics on the affected and unaffected sides to some extent. Thereinto, the knee moment on the affected side is influenced most. Regarding normal walking as the reference, among the total of 15 indexes, the influences of wearing the proposed powered prosthesis on six indexes on the affected side (ankle’s/knee’s/hip’s angles, hip’s moment, and Z- and X-axis GRF components) and five indexes on the unaffected side (ankle’s/knee’s/hip’s angles and ankle’s/hip’s moments) are slighter than those of wearing the ESAR foot. The influences of wearing the powered prosthesis on two indexes on the unaffected side (knee’s moment and X-axis GRF component) are similar to those of wearing the ESAR foot. The greatest improvement of wearing the powered prosthesis is to provide further plantarflexion after reaching the origin of the ankle joint before toe-off, which means that the designed powered device can provide further propulsive power for the lifting of the human body’s centre of gravity during walking on level ground. The results demonstrate that wearing the novel powered ankle–foot prosthesis benefits the rookie in recovering the normal gait more than wearing the ESAR foot.
Application of elementary probability models for text homogeneity and segmentation: A case study of Bible
Authors: Abebe Berhane
Published: June 2024

For the purpose of this study, A statistical test of Biblical books was conducted using the recently discovered probability models for text homogeneity and text change point detection. Accordingly, translations of Biblical books of Tigrigna and Amharic (major languages spoken in Eritrea and Ethiopia) and English were studied. A Zipf-Mandelbrot distribution with a parameter range of 0.55 to 0.88 was obtained in these three Bibles. According to the statistical analysis of the texts’ homogeneity, the translation of Bible in each of these three languages was a heterogeneous concatenation of different books or genres. Furthermore, an in-depth examination of the text segmentation of prat of a single genre—the English Bible letters revealed that the Pauline letters are heterogeneous concatenations of two homogeneous segments.
A study on the spatial distribution characteristics and driving factors of traditional villages in the southeast coast of China: A case study of Puxian, Fujian
Authors: Lu Xiaoxue , Peng Zhuo , Zhou Yuchen , Xie Yanqiu , Chen Zujian
Published: June 2024

Traditional villages are the common historical and cultural heritage of all mankind. With the intensification of urbanization, the continuation of traditional villages and the inheritance of historical and cultural heritage are facing risks. The research on the driving factors affecting the spatial distribution characteristics, heterogeneity and human land interaction of traditional villages provides a new idea for the protection of traditional villages. This study takes 137 traditional villages in Puxian area, a typical cultural area in the southeast coast, as the research object, analyzes the spatial distribution pattern of traditional villages by using spatial analysis method, and selects 13 factors to analyze the main driving forces and interaction mechanisms through geographical detectors. The results show that: (1) Puxian traditional villages are clustered and distributed, and the distribution among counties is uneven, mainly in the state of "one cluster and many scattered points" with more coastal areas and less mountainous areas. (2) Puxian traditional villages are mainly affected by many factors such as nature, space, society and culture. They are more densely distributed in areas with rich cultural heritage, fertile land, flat terrain, suitable climate, close to water systems, developed transportation, backward economy and dense population. (3) Cultural factors are the primary factors affecting the spatial distribution of traditional villages, the order of driving factors’ explanatory power is: intangible cultural heritage (0.5160) > protected cultural relic units (0.3591) > distance from railway (0.3255) > night light remote sensing (0.3179) > elevation (0.3012) > population density (0.2671) > slope (0.2032) > soil type (0.1804) > precipitation (0.1750) > temperature (0.1744) > land use (0.1492) > distance from river (0.0691)>distance from highway (0.0530). The interaction of intangible cultural heritage, protected cultural relic units and distance from the railway is the dominant factor for the spatial differentiation of traditional villages. Among them, the interaction of intangible cultural heritage∩distance from the railway is the strongest, and the q-value is 0.79, which proves that the interpretation ability of the two factor model is much higher than that of the single factor model. The results of this study reflect that traditional villages and nature, space, society and culture are interdependent, so the protection of traditional villages should be adapted to local conditions.
Postdoctoral T32 training is correlated with obtaining an academic primarily research faculty position
Authors: Mueller Adrienne L. , Schnirel Addie , Kleppner Sofie , Tsao Philip , Leeper Nicholas J.
Published: June 2024

The mission of NIH-sponsored institutional training programs such as the T32 is to provide strong research and career training for early career scientists. One of the main avenues to pursuing health-related research is becoming research faculty at an academic institution. It is therefore important to know whether these programs are succeeding in this mission, or, if barriers exist that prevent trainees from pursuing these careers. Our institution currently trains ~ 2400 post-doctoral scholars per year, approximately 5% of whom are enrolled in one of our 33 T32 programs. In this study, we 1) compare the proximal professional career trajectories of T32 trainees with non-T32 trainees at our institution, 2) compare proximal career trajectories of trainees in a subset of cardiovascular T32 programs based on their previous training backgrounds, and 3) survey past and current T32 trainees in a subset of cardiovascular T32 programs about the barriers and enablers they experienced to pursuing research-oriented careers. We find that former T32 trainees are significantly more likely to attain appointments as primarily research faculty members, compared to other trainees. Trainees report a perceived lack of stability, the paucity of open positions, and the ‘publish or perish’ mentality of academia as the top barriers to pursuing careers in academia. However, they were still more likely to choose research over clinical careers after participating in a dedicated T32 program. Our results support the conclusion that structured training programs strengthen the pipeline of young scientists pursuing careers in academic research, including those from underrepresented backgrounds. However, T32 postdoctoral researchers are held back from pursuing academic careers by a perceived lack of stability and high competition for faculty positions.
Differential activation of rhodopsin triggers distinct endocytic trafficking and recycling in vivo via differential phosphorylation
Authors: Ferng Darwin , Sun Wesley , Shieh Bih-Hwa
Published: June 2024

Activated GPCRs are phosphorylated and internalized mostly via clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME), which are then sorted for recycling or degradation. We investigated how differential activation of the same GPCR affects its endocytic trafficking in vivo using rhodopsin as a model in pupal photoreceptors of flies expressing mCherry-tagged rhodopsin 1 (Rh1-mC) or GFP-tagged arrestin 1 (Arr1-GFP). Upon blue light stimulation, activated Rh1 recruited Arr1-GFP to the rhabdomere, which became co-internalized and accumulated in cytoplasmic vesicles of photoreceptors. This internalization was eliminated in shits1 mutants affecting dynamin. Moreover, it was blocked by either rdgA or rdgB mutations affecting the PIP2 biosynthesis. Together, the blue light-initiated internalization of Rh1 and Arr1 belongs to CME. Green light stimulation also triggered the internalization and accumulation of activated Rh1-mC in the cytoplasm but with faster kinetics. Importantly, Arr1-GFP was also recruited to the rhabdomere but not co-internalized with Rh1-mC. This endocytosis was not affected in shits1 nor rdgA mutants, indicating it is not CME. We explored the fate of internalized Rh1-mC following CME and observed it remained in cytoplasmic vesicles following 30 min of dark adaptation. In contrast, in the non-CME Rh1-mC appeared readily recycled back to the rhabdomere within five min of dark treatment. This faster recycling may be regulated by rhodopsin phosphatase, RdgC. Together, we demonstrate two distinct endocytic and recycling mechanisms of Rh1 via two light stimulations. It appears that each stimulation triggers a distinct conformation leading to different phosphorylation patterns of Rh1 capable of recruiting Arr1 to rhabdomeres. However, a more stable interaction leads to the co-internalization of Arr1 that orchestrates CME. A stronger Arr1 association appears to impede the recycling of the phosphorylated Rh1 by preventing the recruitment of RdgC. We conclude that conformations of activated rhodopsin determine the downstream outputs upon phosphorylation that confers differential protein-protein interactions.
Numerical investigation of the impact of temperature-dependent thermal conductivity and viscosity on thermo-particle heat transfer through stationary sphere and using plume
Authors: Nabwey Hossam A. , Ashraf Muhammad , Khan Anwar , Abbas Amir , Rashad A. M. , Abdelrahman Zeinab M. , Ahmed Hassan Ehssan , Awad Mohamed M.
Published: June 2024

Nanofluids have a wide range of applications due to their unique properties, such as enhanced thermal conductivity, convective heat transfer, and mass transfer. These applications can be seen in heat exchangers, cooling systems, and electronic devices to improve thermal performance. To enhance the cooling efficiency and lifespan of electronic devices such as smartphones, televisions, and computers nanofluids are used. These novel types of fluids can be used in energy storage systems, cancer treatment, imaging, and drug deliveryKeeping in mind, the real-time applications in engineering, industry, and science, the current study is carried out. In the present study for heat and mass transportation, the two-phase Buongiorno model for nanofluid is employed to scrutinize Brownian motion and thermophoresis aspects using stationary sphere and plume region. The temperature-dependent viscosity and thermal conductivity effects are encountered in momentum and energy equations, respectively are encountered. The proposed mechanism in the partial differential equations having dimensional form is converted to a non-dimensional form using appropriate dimensionless variables. The solution of the current non-linear and coupled model is obtained using the finite difference method. The numerical solutions presented in graphs and tables indicate that along with heat and mass transfer phenomena are entirely dependent on thermophoresis, Brownian motion, temperature-dependent viscosity, and thermal conductivity. The results indicate that the quantitative behavior of the velocity field is enhanced by increasing values of thermal conductivity variation parameters for both the sphere and the plume region at each position. On the other hand, the reverse trend is noted against the rising magnitudes of the viscosity variation parameter, thermophoresis parameter, and Brownian diffusion parameter. Additionally, the temperature in the plume region declines to enhance thermal conductivity variation parameter. A test for grid independence was performed by considering various grid points. Excellent solution accuracy has been seen as the number of grid points has risen. This ensures the validity and accuracy of the currently employed method. The current results are compared with already published solutions for the validation of the current model for specific cases. It has been noted that there is excellent agreement between both of the results. This close agreement between the results indicates the validation of the current solutions.
Adoption of mobile learning in the university context: Systematic literature review
Authors: Valencia-Arias Alejandro , Cardona-Acevedo Sebastian , Gómez-Molina Sergio , Vélez Holguín Rosa María , Valencia Jackeline
Published: June 2024

The study on the adoption of mobile learning in university education reveals a growing interest in mobile technologies to improve the learning process; both the acceptance and rejection of these tools among students have been analyzed. However, there are gaps in the research that require a deeper exploration of the factors that influence the adoption and use of these technologies. Understanding these aspects is crucial to optimize mobile learning strategies and improve the educational experience in the university setting. The objective is to examine research trends regarding the topic. PRISMA-2020 is used in the Scopus and Web of Science databases. The results show the questionnaires as the main collection instruments; geographical contexts show that it has been researched predominantly in Asia; The studies have focused on university students; the most applied theories are TAM and UTAUT; and latent variables such as behavioral intention and attitude. The conclusions summarize the trends and patterns observed in the reviewed literature, as well as the research gaps identified, providing a solid foundation for future research and highlighting the importance of addressing this issue in the current context of digital education. The systematic review identifies key models and factors in the adoption of mobile learning in university settings, revealing both theoretical and practical implications. Furthermore, this text provides practical guidance for selecting effective data collection tools and making informed educational and policy decisions. However, it acknowledges limitations such as potential publication and language bias in the search process.
Host-defence caerin 1.1 and 1.9 peptides suppress glioblastoma U87 and U118 cell proliferation through the modulation of mitochondrial respiration and induce the downregulation of CHI3L1
Authors: Wang Yichen , Zhong Furong , Xiao Fengyun , Li Junjie , Liu Xiaosong , Ni Guoying , Wang Tianfang , Zhang Wei
Published: June 2024

Glioblastoma, the most aggressive form of brain cancer, poses a significant global health challenge with a considerable mortality rate. With the predicted increase in glioblastoma incidence, there is an urgent need for more effective treatment strategies. In this study, we explore the potential of caerin 1.1 and 1.9, host defence peptides derived from an Australian tree frog, in inhibiting glioblastoma U87 and U118 cell growth. Our findings demonstrate the inhibitory impact of caerin 1.1 and 1.9 on cell growth through CCK8 assays. Additionally, these peptides effectively curtail the migration of glioblastoma cells in a cell scratch assay, exhibiting varying inhibitory effects among different cell lines. Notably, the peptides hinder the G0/S phase replication in both U87 and U118 cells, pointing to their impact on the cell cycle. Furthermore, caerin 1.1 and 1.9 show the ability to enter the cytoplasm of glioblastoma cells, influencing the morphology of mitochondria. Proteomics experiments reveal intriguing insights, with a decrease in CHI3L1 expression and an increase in PZP and JUNB expression after peptide treatment. These proteins play roles in cell energy metabolism and inflammatory response, suggesting a multifaceted impact on glioblastoma cells. In conclusion, our study underscores the substantial anticancer potential of caerin 1.1 and 1.9 against glioblastoma cells. These findings propose the peptides as promising candidates for further exploration in the realm of glioblastoma management, offering new avenues for developing effective treatment strategies.
Effects of hydroxyurea on fertility in male and female sickle cell disease patients. A systemic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sewaralthahab Sarah , Alsubki Lujain A. , Alhrabi Maram S. , Alsultan Abdulrahman
Published: June 2024

Background

Evidence supports the benefits of hydroxyurea (HU) in adults with sickle cell disease (SCD), but reservations remain due to long-term concerns of fertility. Retrospective analysis of clinical records of SCD patients (haemoglobin SS genotype) have identified gender-related differences in disease progression. This could inform risk stratification during SCD at diagnosis with the possibility to guide therapeutic decisions.

Methods

This systemic review and meta-analysis evaluated fertility parameters in both children (aged ≥ 6 years) and adults with SCD receiving HU therapy. Studies were sourced from PubMed and EMBASE from inception to July 2023. A total of 160 potentially relevant articles were identified.

Results

Four studies were included that evaluated the effects of HU on sperm parameters in males. A further 4 studies assessed anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) levels and ovarian reserves in females. Differences from baseline values were used to identify compromised fertility. Amongst males, HU treatment negatively impacted the concentration of spermatozoa (MD = -15.48 million/mL; 95% CI: [-20.69, -10.26]; p< 0.001), which continued following treatment cessation (MD = -20.09 million/mL; 95% CI: [-38.78, -1.40]; P = 0.04). HU treatment also led to lower total sperm counts (MD = -105.87 million; 95% CI: [-140.61, -71.13]; P< 0.001) which persisted after treatment (MD = -53.05 million; 95% CI: [-104.96, -1.14]; P = 0.05). Sperm volume, initial forward motility and morphology were unaffected by HU treatment. In females, HU treatment decreased the mean AMH levels 1.83 (95% CI [1.42, 2.56]. A total of 18.2.% patients treated with HU showed reduced ovarian reserves.

Interpretation & conclusions

This systemic review and meta-analysis suggest that the use of HU for SCD impacts seminal fluid parameters in males and can diminish AMH levels and ovarian reserves in females.
Comparative efficacy of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor on diabetic macular edema diagnosed with different patterns of optical coherence tomography: A network meta-analysis
Authors: Yao Jiajia , Huang Wanli , Gao Lixia , Liu Yan , Zhang Qi , He Juncai , Zhang Li
Published: June 2024

Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections have emerged as the most common therapeutic approach for the management of diabetic macular edema (DME). Despite their proven superiority over other interventions, there is a paucity of data regarding the relative effectiveness of anti-VEGF agents in treating DME diagnosed with different patterns of optical coherence tomography (OCT). In this regard, we conducted a systematic review and comparative analysis of the therapeutic efficacy of intravitreal bevacizumab, ranibizumab, aflibercept, and conbercept in the management of DME with diffuse retinal thickening (DRT), cystoid macular edema (CME), and serous retinal detachment (SRD) patterns identified using OCT. Our study encompassed a comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wan Fang Data from their inception until January 25, 2023. The network meta-analysis involved the inclusion of 1606 patients from 20 retrospective studies with a moderate risk of bias but no evidence of publication bias. The DRT group had the highest increase in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) with anti-VEGF, while the SRD group had the greatest reduction in Central Macular Thickness (CMT). Furthermore, conbercept, ranibizumab, and bevacizumab, respectively, showed the best treatment outcomes for patients with DRT, CME, and SRD in terms of improvement in BCVA. And, conbercept exhibited the highest reduction in CMT in the DRT, CME, and SRD groups. In conclusion, our study highlights the efficacy of anti-VEGF agents in the management of DME and provides valuable insights into the selection of anti-VEGF agents tailored to the individual needs of patients.
Multilevel strategies to end HIV for young couples in Cape Town: Study protocol for a cluster randomized trial
Authors: Wechsberg Wendee M. , Carney Tara , Browne Felicia A. , van der Drift Isa M. , Kline Tracy L. , Nyblade Laura L. , Ndirangu Jacqueline , Orrell Catherine , Bonner Courtney P. , Caron Emily
Published: June 2024

This protocol presents a multilevel cluster randomized study in 24 communities in Cape Town, South Africa. The study comprises four specific aims. Aim 1, conducted during the formative phase, was to modify the original Couples Health CoOp (CHC) intervention to include antiretroviral therapy/pre-exposure prophylaxis (ART/PrEP), called the Couples Health CoOp Plus (CHC+), with review from our Community Collaborative Board and a Peer Advisory Board. Aim 1 has been completed for staging the trial. Aim 2 is to evaluate the impact of a stigma awareness and education workshop on community members’ attitudes and behaviors toward young women and men who use AODs and people in their community seeking HIV services (testing/ART/PrEP) and other health services in their local clinics. Aim 3 is to test the efficacy of the CHC+ to increase both partners’ PrEP/ART initiation and adherence (at 3 and 6 months) and to reduce alcohol and other drug use, sexual risk and gender-based violence, and to enhance positive gender norms and communication relative to HIV testing services (n = 480 couples). Aim 4 seeks to examine through mixed methods the interaction of the stigma awareness workshop and the CHC+ on increased PrEP and ART initiation, retention, and adherence among young women and their primary partners. Ongoing collaborations with community peer leaders and local outreach staff from these communities are essential for reaching the project’s aims. Additionally, a manualized field protocol with regular training, fidelity checks, and quality assurance are critical components of this multilevel community trial for successful ongoing data collection.

Trial registration. Clinicaltrials.gov Registration Number: NCT05310773. Pan African Trials: pactr.samrc.ac.za/ Registration Number: PACTR202205640398485.
Tick-borne encephalitis infections without CNS involvement: An observational study in Latvia, 2007–2022
Authors: Freimane Zane , Karelis Guntis , Zolovs Maksims , Zavadska Dace
Published: June 2024

Background

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a human viral infectious disease involving the central nervous system (CNS). It is caused by the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV). At present, there is very limited information regarding the clinical importance and health burden of TBE infections without signs of CNS inflammation. Moreover, such cases are omitted from official TBE surveillances and there are no reports of population-based studies.

Methods and findings

A nationwide population-based study was conducted in Latvia by intensively searching for symptomatic TBEV infections recorded in outpatient and hospital settings between 2007 and 2022. In total, 4,124 symptomatic TBEV infections were identified, of which 823 (20.0%) had no CNS involvement. Despite the lack of neurological symptoms, non-CNS TBE patients still experienced severe health conditions that required management in a hospital setting for a median duration of 7 days. Furthermore, lumbar puncture information was available for 708 of these patients, with 100 (14.1%) undergoing the procedure, suggesting a high suspicion of CNS involvement.

Conclusions

Clearly, non-CNS TBE has the potential to negatively impact the health of patients. The actual burden of non-CNS TBEV cases may be higher than we think as these cases are omitted from official TBE surveillances and are challenging to recognize.
Los Colegios de abogados y el ejercicio de la abogacía en Navarra desde sus orígenes hasta 1894
Authors: Lizarraga Rada Mikel
Published: June 2024

El presente texto centra su objeto de estudio en la fundación y evolución de los colegios de abogados en el siglo XIX, sin perder vista la vista en el ejercicio de la abogacía en el reino de Navarra entre los siglos XII y XVIII, dotada de características propias conferidas por la aplicación de su Derecho foral privativo. Se presenta, así, una imagen global de la evolución de la profesión, sustentándose el estudio en la legislación que históricamente la ha regulado.
Traditional knowledge of ethnomedicinal plants used by the Mishing community in Sivasagar District, Assam (India)
Authors: Buragohain Priyakshi , Das Barnali , Nath Madhushmita , Sarma Parag Jyoti , Boro Mijing , Roy Shilpa , Nath Namita
Published: June 2024

Ethnobotany plays a significant role in traditional medicine practices. The present study aims to enlist the ethnomedicinal plants used by the Mishing community in Sivasagar district, Assam, India. The study was conducted from March 2021 to March 2022 to record the ethnomedicinally important plants used by the Mishing community. In the present study, 109 plant species were used in different ethnomedicinal practices which belong to 55 families and 101 genera. Out of 55 families, Asteraceae is dominant with the highest number of medicinal plants (8 species, 7.33%). In the survey, the symptomatic diseases category showed the highest agreement with an FIC of 0.64%. The most commonly used plant parts for medicinal treatments were leaves (68 species, 62.38%). In comparison to other plant parts, the utilization of leaves causes less distress to the plant ensuring sustainability and its further conservation. It is concluded that the Mishing community of Sivasagar (Assam) District uses various medicinal plants to cure different diseases as their primary source of health care. This will be a significant contribution to the herbal and pharmaceutical industries for the welfare of mankind.
Linking Remote Monitoring to Employee Performance: Mediating Role of Job Satisfaction
Authors: Khelalfa Aboubaker Elseddik
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this research is to investigate the complex relationship between remote monitoring, employee task performance, and job satisfaction. Our main objective is to examine how remote monitoring impacts employee performance, with job satisfaction acting as a potential mediating factor. To do that we use the survey method to collect data from 300+ employees that use remote monitoring internationally. The data was analyzed using SSPA. The findings indicate a positive relationship between remote monitoring and task performance.
The Effect of Bio-Optimised Light in The School Environment on The Cognitive Functions of Pupils
Authors: Nosko Martin
Published: June 2024

The article discusses the impact of bio-optimised lighting in school environments on the cognitive functions and abilities of pupils. The article presents the results of foreign research in the field, as well as the initial findings of the authors' research conducted in a school. The research findings confirm a statistically significant relationship in the context of light and cognitive functions such as attention, thinking, problem-solving, and personal pace. The results suggest that in today's schools, more attention needs to be paid to the quality of lighting in classrooms. This is crucial if we want future generations to have the opportunity to spend time in a wholesome school environment and to be provided with a comprehensive, supportive, and developmental educational process.
Reliability, Sensitivity, and Specificity Measures of the Comprehensive Assessment of Accentedness and Intelligibility (CAAI) Test Battery
Authors: Shah Amee P.
Published: June 2024

Purpose: This paper aims to introduce and report on measures of validation of a diagnostic assessment, the Comprehensive Assessment of Accentedness and Intelligibility (CAAI) Test Battery that identifies communication issues related to a person’s spoken accent. Due to scant availability of standardized assessments of accents, this test battery was developed to enable evidence-based diagnoses and determine severity levels of dialect- and accent-related communication difficulties (Shah, 2024). The present paper reports on psychometric testing conducted on the test battery with the resulting measures of reliability, sensitivity, and specificity of the CAAI. Methods: Native and nonnative speakers of English (N = 61) were administered the CAAI Test Battery, and their communication was evaluated and scored. Descriptive statistics were used to examine test sensitivity, specificity, interrater reliability, inter-item (internal consistency) reliability, and test-retest reliability. Results: The CAAI Test Battery meets high standards for test sensitivity in identifying accent-related communication concerns. Test specificity was high for not falsely identifying native speakers as having accent-related concerns. The instrument had strong interrater reliability across all 20 sections of the test (Pearson correlation coefficients ranged from 0.68 to 1.00, all highly significant at p<0.01). The test showed strong inter-item reliability/internal consistency with a large number of sections yielding moderate to high Cronbach’s alpha coefficient range of 0.70 to 1.00. The test showed strong test-retest reliability with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.73 to 1.00, significant at p<0.05. Conclusions: With high sensitivity, specificity, and reliability, the CAAI Test Battery is found to be a stable and meaningful means to assess dialect- and accent-related communication concerns. The CAAI Test Battery helps fill a crucial gap in the area of accents/dialects that lacks other validated assessment measures. With a sensitive and reliable assessment, clinicians and teachers can identify an accurate baseline pattern of errors to address for accent management or pronunciation teaching and achieve effective outcomes in a short amount of time.
Retaining Scholarly Voices for the Profession: Doctoral Graduates as Agentic Constructors of Scholarship
Authors: Holmes Barbara , Parker DeJuanna , Mitchell Charles , Fillman Scott , Hurt Sonya
Published: June 2024

This qualitative study explored the exercise of academic identity and agency of five doctoral graduates. Each participant received a doctorate from programs that focus on the production of new knowledge after the degree is attained. The study yielded four emerging themes: Importance of Academic Community to Scholarly Engagement, Challenges of Post-Doctoral Life , Challenges to the Exercise of Scholarly Agency, and Need for Collaboration and Mentorship Opportunities, which precipitated the development of a new paradigm, Fillman’s Hierarchy of Agentic Construction.