bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solar-Induced Chlorophyll Fluorescence-Based GPP Estimation and Analysis of Influencing Factors for Xinjiang Vegetation
Authors: Xue Cong , Zan Mei , Zhou Yanlian , Li Kunyu , Zhou Jia , Yang Shunfa , Zhai Lili
Published: November 2024

With climate change and the intensification of human activity, drought event frequency has increased, affecting the Gross Primary Production (GPP) of terrestrial ecosystems. Accurate estimation of the GPP and in-depth exploration of its response mechanisms to drought are essential for understanding ecosystem stability and developing strategies for climate change adaptation. Combining remote sensing technology and machine learning is currently the mainstream method for estimating the GPP in terrestrial ecosystems, which can eliminate the uncertainty of model parameters and errors in input data. This study employed extreme gradient boosting, random forest (RF), and light use efficiency models. Additionally, we integrated solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF), near-infrared reflectance of vegetation, and the leaf area index (LAI) to construct various GPP estimation models. The standardised precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) was utilised at various timescales to analyse the relationship between the GPP and SPEI during dry years. Moreover, the potential pathways and coefficients of environmental factors that influence GPP were explored using structural equation modelling. Our key findings include the following: (1) the model combining the SIF and RF algorithms exhibits higher accuracy and applicability in estimating vegetation GPP in the arid zone of Xinjiang, with an overall accuracy (MODIS R2) of 0.775; (2) the vegetation in Xinjiang had different response characteristics to different timescales of drought, in which the optimal timescale for GPP to respond to drought was 9 months, with a mean correlation coefficient of 0.244 between grass land GPP and SPEI09, indicating high sensitivity; (3) using structural equation modelling, we found that temperature and precipitation can affect GPP both directly and indirectly through LAI. This study provides a reliable tool for estimating the GPP in Xinjiang, and its methodology and conclusions are important references for similar environments. In addition, this study bridges the research gap in drought response to GPP at different timescales, and the potential influence mechanism of natural factors on GPP provides a scientific basis for early warning of drought and ecosystem management. Further validation using a longer time series is required to confirm the robustness of the model.
Soil Nutrient Profiles in Three Types of Rocky Fissure Network Habitats of Typical Karst Formations in China: A Maolan World Heritage Perspective
Authors: Lin Zhixin , Huang Zongsheng , Wang Meiquan , Xiang Huiwen , Chen Yuanduo , Lu Shaowei
Published: November 2024

Amid global desertification, this study investigates karst ecosystems; analyzing soil’s physiological and ecological properties within intricate fissure networks supporting plant root growth. This study investigates soil nutrients in three types of rocky fissure network habitats in Maolan, through field surveys and experimental measurements. Significant variability was found across habitats. The quantities of organic carbon, total nitrogen, available nitrogen, available phosphorus, and available potassium were highest in Type I soil, followed by Type III; and were lowest in Type II. Total phosphorus was highest in Type III, intermediate in Type I, and lowest in Type II; while total potassium content was highest in Type III, moderate in Type II, and lowest in Type I. Based on nutrient participation in C, N, P, and K cycles, Type I habitats had the highest levels, Type III had moderate levels, and Type II had the lowest levels; while potassium-related nutrients were highest in Type III. The nutrient ratios C/K, N/K, P/K, and N/P were highest in Type I, moderate in Type II, and lowest in Type III. C/N was highest in Type II, moderate in Type III, and lowest in Type I; while C/P was highest in Type II, moderate in Type I, and lowest in Type III. A comprehensive nutrient evaluation ranked Type I as the best, Type III as moderate, and Type II as the worst. Key factors such as average trace length, areal density, and integration significantly influence soil nutrients by impacting humus and soil storage, and the growth space for plant roots within rocky habitats. Additionally, the orientation of fissures primarily impacts nutrient cycling, while both the angles and lacunarity significantly affect the stoichiometric ratios of nutrients. Rocky habitat networks characterize soil quality. A comparison of existing studies reveals stoichiometric differences between karst and non-karst regions. Effective ecological restoration in karst areas requires targeted strategies that consider the specific attributes of different rocky habitats. This study enhances understanding of soil nutrients in karst forest ecosystems and proposes new approaches for soil’s ecological restoration and combating global desertification.
Evaluation of the Phenolic Components, Fiber Content, Antioxidant Activity, and Prebiotic Capacity of a Shortbread Cookie Fortified with Hazelnut Skin Waste
Authors: Costantini Lara , Di Matteo Giacomo , Felli Martina , Savatin Daniel V. , Mannina Luisa , Merendino Nicolò
Published: November 2024

Food reformulation is a strategy to make healthier foods by using food waste matrices that are still nutritionally valid. A shortbread cookie was reformulated replacing hazelnut skin (HS) of the Tonda Gentile Romana variety (5% and 10%) to refined flour and proportionally decreasing the butter amount. This resulted in significant, two- and five-fold, increases in the antioxidant capacity compared with the control, in the 5% and 10% fortified recipes, respectively. Among the most important antioxidants, gallic acid, catechin, phloridzin, and protocatechuic acid were found. Moreover, here we found, for the first time, that HS from the Romana variety had a high total fiber content (44.13 g/100 g), most of which was insoluble fiber. Therefore, HS 10% addition to the shortbread cookie recipe caused a significant increase in fiber content, making the experimental cookie earn the nutritional claim of “high fiber content”. Finally, preliminary evidence demonstrated that 10% HS, in comparison to 5%, following in vitro upper gastrointestinal digestion, conferred significant prebiotic activity in an in vitro culture of L. rhamnosus. Therefore, from the perspective of the circular economy, HS could be a valuable ingredient to increase the antioxidant and prebiotic activities of conventional foods.
Validation of a Novel Strategy for Fluorescence Quenching for a Self-Quenching Fluorogenic Probe and Its Application for Visual Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Detection During Food Safety Analysis
Authors: Huang Sisi , Wang Shihui , Wang Tianlong , Song Hongwei , Guo Yan , Xiong Xiong , Wang Libin
Published: November 2024

The self-quenching fluorogenic probe facilitates precise identification of LAMP (loop-mediated isothermal amplification) amplicons, unaffected by non-specific products resulting from primer dimers. However, low quenching efficiency by surrounding nucleobases leads to high background signal, posing significant challenges for visual inspection with the naked eye. The present study aims to identify an oligonucleotide sequence that is complementary to the self-quenching fluorogenic probe, and to employ the fluorescence super-quenching mechanism of double-stranded DNA to establish a visualization system for the LAMP assay. The results indicated that the incorporation of a sequence fully complementary to the probe could significantly reduce the system’s background fluorescence (p < 0.05). When the melting temperature exceeds room temperature, truncating the complementary sequence from the 3′ end does not compromise the probe’s quenching efficiency. The LAMP visualization system, using a 10–13-base complementary sequence of the loop primer-based probe, could effectively minimize background fluorescence and yield straightforward visual results post-reaction. Applied to rainbow trout and Atlantic salmon detection, the system detected 1 pg DNA in a closed-tube format. In conclusion, a suitable complementary sequence can reduce the background fluorescence of the self-quenching fluorogenic probe. Employing this sequence alongside the self-quenching fluorogenic probe to develop a low-background fluorescence LAMP system demonstrates great potential for successful visual detection and holds considerable promotional merit.
Integrated Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Analysis Reveal the Production Mechanism of Semicarbazide in Macrobrachium rosenbergii Under Urea Conditions
Authors: Li Jun , Wang Di , Chen Shengjun , Gao Fangfang , Li Chunsheng , Feng Yang , Deng Jianchao
Published: November 2024

Semicarbazide (SEM) is commonly utilized as a biomarker for detecting the usage of nitrofurazone (NFZ); however, its endogenous presence in aquatic products complicates detection and poses challenges to the quality and safety of these products. Although previous research suggests a potential link between SEM and urea, the specific mechanisms underlying its production under induced conditions remain unclear. To solve the above problem, the integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses were performed for systematically exploring endogenous production mechanisms underlying SEM in Macrobrachium rosenbergii under urea conditions. As a result, urea exposure significantly disrupted key pathways, including glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism; 2-oxocarboxylic acid metabolism; and protein digestion and absorption, thereby highlighting the role of amino acid metabolism in SEM formation. Compared to traditional single-omics approaches, this method provided a comprehensive analysis of gene–metabolite interactions, revealing the mechanism of endogenous production of SEM in M. rosenbergii. This research offers new insights into enhancing aquatic product safety and quality and represents a methodological reference for future research regarding the endogenous SEM production mechanisms.
Investigating Flavor Enhancement Methods in NaCl-Reduced Chinese Bacon (Larou) by Focusing on Physicochemical Characteristics, Bacterial Diversity, and Volatiles
Authors: Yang Li , Li Hongjun , Wu Han , Sun Xuelian , Liu Shuyun , He Zhifei
Published: November 2024

The higher NaCl concentration of Chinese bacon, which features a unique flavor, is a major restriction to consumption. Investigating the role of NaCl in Chinese bacon (Larou) would be beneficial to optimize the dosage and enhance flavor. This study was conducted to categorize Larou by comparing the quality of Larou cured with different concentrations of NaCl and then to investigate the methods of flavor enhancement of NaCl-reduced Larou. The results showed that, based on the differences in quality, Larou were categorized into three types, including the low-NaCl type (<4%, LT), the medium-NaCl type (4–8%, MT), and the high-NaCl type (>8%, HT). The vital physicochemical characteristics (PCs), predominant bacteria, and key volatile compounds (VOCs) were different for each type of Larou. The PCs contributing to the regulation of VOCs were total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) and pH in LT, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance assay (TBARS) in MT, NaNO2, and moisture content in HT. Lactococcus or Lactobacillus, Staphylococcus, and Kocuria were flavor-producing bacteria in LT, MT, and HT, respectively. Vital PCs and predominant bacteria were associated with several key aldehydes, alcohols, and esters in Larou. Increasing the TVB-N, TBARS, and moisture content, decreasing the pH and NaNO2 properly, and inoculating with Staphylococcus and Kocuria were effective methods to enhance the flavor of LT. Vital PCs and predominant bacteria are prioritized to meet most of the quality and the biosafety, although key VOCs may be sacrificed at this point.
Quality Characteristics Changes of the Fat Portion of Chinese Bacon During Processing Based on Physicochemical Properties and Microstructure Studies
Authors: Liu Chuxin , He Enqi , Fu Peitao , He Leli , Zhou Lei , Lou Aihua , Liu Yan , Fu Haohua , Shen Qingwu , Luo Jie , Quan Wei
Published: November 2024

In order to elucidate the development of quality properties in the fat portion of Chinese bacon during low-temperature smoking (LTS), raw pork was cured for five days, followed by infusion with smoked liquid and a subsequent ten-day smoking period characterized by alternating high and low-temperature conditions. The physicochemical characteristics and microstructures of the fat portion of the Chinese bacon were examined at three stages: the raw meat stage (Control), the curing stage (C3d and C5d), and the smoking stage (S5d and S10d). The results showed that LTS increased the hardness, transparency, and b* value of bacon fat. The increased contents of neutral lipids and free fatty acids, increased activities of neutral lipase and lipoxygenase, and increased peroxide and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance value indicated significant lipolysis and lipid oxidation of bacon fat during LTS. After the treatment, a decreased melting point and increased β′- and β-type fat crystal formation were observed in the fat portion. Moreover, the treatment led to disruption of the adipocyte membrane structure. Therefore, the destruction of adipocytes after lipolysis and lipid oxidation during low-temperature smoking treatment might contribute to the development of quality properties of bacon fat portions. Precise control of temperature and time enhances the stability of the fat portion of bacon, thereby improving quality characteristics such as texture and appearance.
Analyzing the Chaotic Dynamics of a Fractional-Order Dadras–Momeni System Using Relaxed Contractions
Authors: Ahmad Haroon , Din Fahim Ud , Younis Mudasir , Guran Liliana
Published: November 2024

This paper is inspired by cutting-edge advancements in chaos theory, fractional calculus, and fixed point theory, which together provide a powerful framework for examining the dynamics of complex systems. At the heart of our research is the fractional-order Dadras–Momeni chaotic system, a pivotal model in chaos theory celebrated for its intricate, multi-scroll dynamics. Leveraging the Atangana–Baleanu fractional derivative, we extend fractional computation to chaotic systems, offering deeper insights into their behavior. To fortify the mathematical foundation of our analysis, we employ the relaxed θ rational contractions in the realm of metric spaces, enabling a more precise exploration of the system’s dynamics. A key goal of this work is to simplify the definition of the function class Θ while maintaining the existence and uniqueness of fixed points under θ-relaxed contractions, integrating this framework with the established literature on complete metric spaces. We explore the system’s behavior across six distinct cases by varying δ with a fixed fractional order of ℏ=0.98. In the first case, a single scroll forms, while successive cases lead to increased scrolls—reaching up to four by the sixth case. Phase portraits and time series analyses reveal a progression in complexity and chaos, with denser, intertwined scrolls as δ increases. This behavior highlights the system’s heightened sensitivity to parameter variations, demonstrating how fractional parameters influence the chaotic dynamics. Our results offer meaningful contributions to both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of chaos theory and fractional calculus, advancing the understanding of chaotic systems in new and impacted ways.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Endoscopic Ultrasound for Pancreatic Diseases
Authors: Năstac Ancuța , Constantinescu Alexandru , Andronic Octavian , Păduraru Dan Nicolae , Bolocan Alexandra , Ungureanu Bogdan Silviu
Published: November 2024

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare, particularly in the field of gastroenterology, marks a significant advancement in the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic disorders. This narrative review explores the application of AI in enhancing Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) imaging techniques for pancreatic pathologies, focusing on developments over the past decade. Through a comprehensive literature search across several scientific databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science, this paper selects and analyzes 50 studies that highlight the role, benefits, precision rates, and limitations of AI in EUS. The findings suggest that AI not only improves the quality of endoscopic procedures, as acknowledged by a majority of gastroenterologists in the UK and USA, but also offers a promising future for medical diagnostics and treatment, potentially addressing the shortage of specialists and reducing morbidity and mortality rates. Despite AI’s infancy in clinical applications and the ethical concerns regarding data privacy, its integration into EUS has enhanced diagnostic accuracy and provided minimally invasive therapeutic alternatives. This review underscores the necessity for further clinical data to evaluate the applicability and reliability of AI in healthcare, advocating for a collaborative approach between physicians and AI technologies to revolutionize the traditional clinical diagnosis and expand treatment possibilities in gastroenterology.
Comparative Evolutionary Genomics Reveals Genetic Diversity and Differentiation in Bacteroides fragilis
Authors: Muto Yoshinori , Tanaka Kaori
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Bacteroides fragilis is the pathogenic anaerobe most commonly isolated from intra-abdominal infections, abscesses, and blood. Despite its clinical importance, research on its pan-genome-scale evolution is still limited. Methods: Herein, we analyzed the pan-genome architecture of 374 B. fragilis strains to explore their intra-species genomic diversity and evolutionary patterns. Results: Our analysis revealed an open pan-genome with a high proportion of accessory genomes, indicating high genetic variability. Accessory genome genes were substantially enriched in the functions of “Replication, Recombination, and Repair” suggesting their roles in gene transfer and divergence. Phylogenomic analysis divided B. fragilis into two distinct clades: divisions I and II, differing in gene content, antimicrobial resistance genes, and mobile genetic elements. Division II revealed higher Tajima’s D values, suggesting that it separated after B. fragilis’s recent species diversification. The extreme shift in the distribution of gene-wise Hudson’s fixation index (Fst) values for each division suggested that several genes are highly differentiated or evolved between the two clades. Average nucleotide identity and 16S rRNA analyses showed that B. fragilis division II represents a distinct species, Bacteroides hominis. Additionally, a considerable depletion of recombination in genes with Fst values > 0.99 was noted, suggesting that the highest Fst genes with little recombination are the basis for differentiation between divisions. Conclusions: Overall, this study enhances the understanding of B. fragilis’s genomic diversity, evolutionary dynamics, and potential role in pathogenesis, shedding light on its adaptation and diversification.
Assessment of a Novel Stress and Immune Gene Panel on the Development of Australasian Snapper (Chrysophrys auratus) Larvae
Authors: Bentley-Hewitt Kerry L. , Hedderley Duncan I.
Published: November 2024

Background: Larvae development is a critical step in aquaculture, yet the development of immune and stress responses during this early phase of life is not well understood. Snapper is a species that has been selected as a candidate for aquaculture in New Zealand. Methods: In this study we explore a set of 18 genes identified as potentially being involved in the stress and immune responses of snapper larvae during the first 30 days of development. Larvae were collected between 11:45 a.m. and 16:10 p.m. each day. Results: Most genes did not deviate from baseline expression throughout the 30 days, with some exceptions between Days 0 and 6 with glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase and superoxide dismutase, mitochondrial uncoupling protein 2-like, peroxiredoxin-5 mitochondrial, and hepcidin, which predominantly increased and then stabilized by Day 6 until Day 30. Some genes were affected by the time of day, such as actin cytoplasmic 1 and catalase isoform X2. Conclusions: This exploratory study is the first to look at a panel of stress- and immune-related marker gene expression during early snapper development. It sets methods in place to explore the expression of these markers and determine the impact of different potential stressors, such as alternative food sources and other environmental changes. It also highlights the importance of same time of day collections for gene expression studies.
Genome-Wide Association Study of Body Weight Traits in Texel and Kazakh Crossbred Sheep
Authors: Wang Sheng , Liu Mingjun , Zhang Huiguo , He Sangang , Li Wenrong , Liang Long
Published: November 2024

Background: Originating from the cold and arid regions of northwestern China, Kazakh sheep are dual-purpose breeds optimized for both meat and fat production. In contrast, Texel sheep are internationally recognized for their high-quality meat and exceptional flavor. Previous studies have indicated that the hybrids of Texel and Kazakh sheep exhibit significant quality advantages. Additionally, body weight is a crucial indicator of sheep production performance, directly correlating with meat yield and economic returns. Objective: This study aims to identify genetic variations and related genes associated with the body weight traits of hybrid lambs, thereby revealing their genetic mechanisms. Methods: This study genotyped hybrid lambs using a 50K chip and performed rigorous quality control on both genotypic and phenotypic data. The traits examined include body weight traits of lambs at various stages such as birth, pre-weaning, and post-weaning. Various genome-wide association study (GWAS) models were utilized to analyze the association between lamb body weight traits and genetic markers. The study then employed an Ensemble-like GWAS (E-GWAS) strategy to integrate these models, achieving a stable list of SNPs, rather than a mere aggregation. Multiple annotation databases were consulted to further investigate the mechanisms by which genetic markers affect body weight traits. All study results were validated through an extensive literature review. Results: Analyses with multiple statistical models revealed that 48 SNPs were significantly associated with body weight traits. The annotation process identified 24 related genes (including 4 unknown genes) and 9 quantitative trait loci (QTLs). Additionally, 6 Gene Ontology (GO) terms and 22 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways were determined. Conclusions: This study identified key genes and pathways in the body weight traits of hybrids between Texel and Kazakh sheep, enhancing our understanding of their genetic mechanisms.
Correction: Gupta, P.; Jaiswal, P. Transcriptional Modulation During Photomorphogenesis in Rice Seedlings. Genes 2024, 15, 1072
Authors: Gupta Parul , Jaiswal Pankaj
Published: November 2024

In the original publication [...]
A Pan-Cancer Analysis of the Oncogenic Role of CD276 in Human Tumors
Authors: Liu Lilong , Yao Zhipeng , Liu Yiting , Li Yang , Ding Yuhong , Hu Junyi , Liu Zhenghao , Shi Pengjie , Chen Ke , Liu Zheng , Zhang Wenhao , Hou Yaxin
Published: November 2024

Objectives: B7 homolog 3 protein (B7-H3, also known as CD276) is a member of the B7 family that has been found to be associated with the growth and progression of a variety of tumors, but no pan-cancer evaluations of CD276 have been performed so far. In this study, we aimed to perform a pan-cancer analysis of the oncogenic role of CD276 in human tumors; Methods: We used a series of databases to perform a pan-cancer analysis of CD276, including the expression level of CD276 in pan-cancer and its relationship to tumor progression, patient survival duration, the immune cell infiltration within the tumor, and the potential signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms associated with CD276; Results: We found that CD276 was a potential biomarker for the prognosis of most cancers. The high expression of CD276 was associated with tumor progression, leading to poor survival. Notably, the up-regulation of CD276 expression in tumors increased the tumor infiltration of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and decreased the CD8+ T cells; Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that CD276 might promote tumor progression via the promotion of an immunosuppressive microenvironment.
Conceptual Framework for African American Kinship Caregiver’s Susceptibility to Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Washington Tyreasa , Coley Sheryl , Blakey Joan , Downing Kenya , Wallace Quiana Lewis , Levkoff Sue , Cook Benjamin
Published: November 2024

Kinship caregivers (e.g., grandparents raising grandchildren) have been increasing over the last several decades. Approximately 3.5 million grandparents and other relatives are the primary caregivers for their related children, and African Americans are more likely to be kinship caregivers than persons from other groups. Kinship caregivers face unique challenges, such as parenting for uncertain periods of time and often with insufficient financial resources and support, placing them at significant risk of stress. Given the findings linking chronic stress to Alzheimer’s disease (AD), there is a need for research to identify possible stressors and mitigate risks for outcomes such as AD among kin caregivers. Additionally, research indicates that African Americans (AAs) experience unusually high levels of stress due to factors often associated with structural racism, and they are disproportionately affected by cardiovascular disease (CVD), which is often a consequence of stress and another risk factor for AD. Regrettably, AA kin caregivers often incur a host of negative stress-related outcomes, including poor physical and mental health. Thus, there is an urgent need for research to identify modifiable risk factors for both stress and CVD to potentially mitigate the onset of AD in this population. The purpose of this paper is to provide a conceptual framework to examine the links between African Americans who commit to the unselfish act of providing kinship caregiving and their susceptibility to AD. Future research should investigate modifiable mechanisms to reduce the risks of AD in African American caregivers.
Parent-Mediated Autism Intervention Through a Culturally Informed Lens: Parents Taking Action and Pivotal Response Training with Latine Families
Authors: Lopez Kristina
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: The prevalence of autism has increased substantially among Latine children; however, few service systems are prepared to provide culturally relevant services. Parents Taking Action (PTA) is a culturally informed parent-mediated psychoeducation program designed to meet the informational needs of Latine families with children with autism. The purpose of this study was to pilot a hybrid model of intervention by including direct parent coaching through pivotal response training (PRT) along with PTA among Latina mothers of children with autism. Methods: Ten Latina mothers of children eight years of age with autism participated in this study. The mothers received PTA from two bilingual trained promotoras (community health workers). PTA provided 14 2 h psychoeducation sessions. The mothers also received four one-hour sessions of PRT from bilingual/bicultural coaches. Results: Paired samples t-tests indicated significant increases in the families’ outcomes, their self-efficacy in using the intervention strategies, and their frequency of using strategies, from pre- to post-test. Conclusions: This study suggests that culturally informed parent-mediated autism intervention coupled with parent coaching positively affects family outcomes among Latine families of children with autism.
Urban and Rural Differences in the Efficacy of a Mobile Health Depression Treatment for Young Adults
Authors: Mennis Jeremy , Coatsworth J. Douglas , Russell Michael , Zaharakis Nikola , Brown Aaron R. , Mason Michael J.
Published: November 2024

Depression among young adults represents a growing health problem in the U.S., but access to effective treatment remains a challenge. Mobile health (mHealth) approaches promise to deliver accessible and effective depression treatment; however, questions remain regarding how mHealth depression treatment efficacy may vary geographically based on urban and rural environmental contexts. The present study addresses this knowledge gap by leveraging data from a randomized clinical trial of an mHealth depression treatment called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-text (CBT-txt) as applied to a sample of 103 U.S. young adults (ages 18–25). Prior research has demonstrated the efficacy of CBT-txt to reduce depressive symptoms. In the present study, we conduct an exploratory, post hoc analysis employing moderated growth curve modeling to investigate whether observed treatment efficacy differed between study participants residing in rural versus urban areas. The findings indicate that CBT-txt treatment effects in terms of reducing depression symptoms were significantly stronger for young adults residing in rural, as compared to urban, regions (β = 13.759, 95% CI = 0.796, 26.723, p < 0.038). We speculate that this is because of the lack of mental healthcare resources in rural, as compared to urban areas, as well as the greater level of environmental stressors, such as artificial light and noise, found in cities, which may mitigate treatment effects.
Evaluating the Determinants of Substance Use in LGBTQIA+ Adolescents: A Scoping Review
Authors: Brown Eric , Abdelmassih Erini , Hanna Fahad
Published: November 2024

Background: Research has consistently shown increased drug use among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer/questioning, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) individuals. This is particularly the case among LGBTQIA+ adolescents. Substance use within this vulnerable community can propagate mental health issues, leading to psychiatric disorders, self-harm, and even suicide. Therefore, the objective of this scoping review was to evaluate the determinants of drug use among LGBTQIA+ adolescents. Methods: A comprehensive search of mainly primary research was conducted, using several databases. Peer-reviewed articles published between 2018 and 2023 were included. The scoping review was conducted using the framework outlined by Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) and reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses—Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) statement. Results: A total of 29 articles (including 400,194 participants) were included in the analysis. The articles reported that the main determinants of drug use among LGBTQIA+ adolescents include homelessness, peer–peer interactions, mental health, and protective factors. The articles reported that mental health issues, which were mainly triggered by rejection, were the main determinants of drug use among LGBTQIA+ adolescents. Conclusions: Findings from this scoping review provide relatively reliable evidence that homelessness, mental health, peer–peer interactions, and protective factors are the main determinants of illicit drug use among LGBTQ+ adolescents. Rigorous studies including large sample sizes and systematic reviews are needed to further confirm these findings and assist in developing interventions to combat the unusually high level of drug use among this group.
Multivariate Techniques for Monitoring Susceptible, Exposed, Infected, Recovered, Death, and Vaccination Model Parameters for the COVID-19 Pandemic for Qatar
Authors: Abdel-Salam Abdel-Salam G. , Boone Edward L. , Ghanam Ryad
Published: November 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the crucial role of health sector decision-makers in establishing and evaluating effective treatment and prevention policies. To inform sound decisions, it is essential to simultaneously monitor multiple pandemic characteristics, including transmission rates, infection rates, recovery rates (which indicate treatment efficacy), and fatality rates. This study introduces an innovative application of existing methodologies: the Multivariate Exponentially Weighted Moving Average (MEWMA) and Multivariate Cumulative Sum (MCUSUM) control charts (CCs), used for monitoring the parameters of the Susceptible, Exposed, Infected, Recovered, Death, and Vaccination (SEIRDV) model. The methodology is applied to COVID-19 data from the State of Qatar, offering new insights into the pandemic’s dynamics. By monitoring changes in the model parameters, this study aims to assess the effectiveness of interventions and track the impact of emerging variants. The results underscore the practical utility of these methodologies for decision-making during similar pandemics. Additionally, this study employs an augmented particle Markov chain Monte Carlo scheme that enables real-time monitoring of SEIRDV model parameters, offering improved estimation accuracy and robustness compared to traditional approaches. The results demonstrate that MEWMA and MCUSUM charts are effective tools for monitoring SEIRDV model parameters and can support decision-making in any similar pandemic.
Stress and Stressors Among PHCC Dentists: A Quantitative, Correlational, and Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Abbas Kholoud Z. , Alyafei Najat A. , Tayyem Arwa S. , Zakarya Mohammad R. , Al Mudahka Hamad R. , Abdel-Salam Abdel-Salam G. , Mohammed Hashim A.
Published: November 2024

(1) Background: Dentistry is innately stressful and demanding. However, the extent of perceived chronic stress and the contributing factors within the dental practice at Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) in Qatar are largely unknown. (2) Methods: This study is quantitative, hypothesis-testing, correlational, and cross-sectional, using a simple random sample of all PHCC dentists (168 general dentists and 47 specialist dentists). A cross-sectional survey with electronic consent was performed using demographic and professional information, the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS)-10 to evaluate chronic stress, and the Job Stress Inventory (JSI) to assess job stress factors. (3) Results: The response rate was 49.3%. PHCC dentists demonstrated above-average perceived stress (mean = 18.08, SD = 5.84), with a significant relationship with age (p = 0.01). Overall job stress was average (mean = 2.45, SD = 1.18). All job factors demonstrated a significant and positive correlation with perceived stress (r = 0.472–0.555, p < 0.001). (4) Conclusion: About 70% of the dentists experienced high levels of chronic stress that decreased with age; 65.4% of this stress was attributed to job-related factors, primarily those involving patients (β = 0.341, p < 0.001). This study highlights the impact of health system reforms on stress levels among dental professionals in primary care settings.
The Role of microRNA Expression and DNA Methylation in HPV-Related Cervical Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pulliero Alessandra , Cassatella Giulia , Astuni Pietro , Khalid Zumama , Fiordoro Stefano , Izzotti Alberto
Published: November 2024

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a major etiologic factor in cervical cancer, a major cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women worldwide. The role of microRNA (miRNA) dysregulation in cervical carcinogenesis is still largely unknown, but epigenetic changes, including DNA methylation and miRNA regulation, are crucial factors. The integration of HPV DNA into the host genome can lead to alterations in DNA methylation patterns and miRNA expression, contributing to the progression from normal epithelium to cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and, ultimately, to cervical cancer. This review aimed to examine the relationship between epigenetic changes in the development and progression of HPV associated with cervical cancer. A systematic literature search was conducted in major databases using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Studies that investigated the expression, function, and clinical significance of miRNAs, DNA methylation, and the expression of oncoproteins in HPV-related cervical cancer were included. Data extraction, quality assessment, and synthesis were performed to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge. We provide an overview of the studies investigating miRNA expression in relation to cervical cancer progression, highlighting their common outcomes and their weaknesses/strengths. To achieve this, we systematically searched the Pubmed database for all articles published between January 2018 and December 2023. Our systematic review revealed a substantial body of evidence supporting the pivotal role of miRNA dysregulation in the pathogenesis of HPV-related cervical cancer and related oncoproteins. From the 28 studies retrieved, miR-124, FAM194/miR-124-2, and DNA methylation are the most frequently down- or up-regulated in CC progression. Notably, FAM194/miR-124-2 and DNA methylation emerged as a promising molecular marker for distinguishing between cases requiring immediate surgical intervention and those amenable to a more conservative wait-and-see approach. This systematic review underscores the critical involvement of microRNA in the context of HPV-related cervical cancer and sheds light on the potential clinical utility of FAM194/miR-124-2 and DNA methylation as a discriminatory tool for guiding treatment decisions. The identification of patients who may benefit from early surgical intervention versus those suitable for observation has important implications for personalized and targeted management strategies in the era of precision medicine.
LINE-1-Induced Retrotransposition Affects Early Preimplantation Embryo DNA Integrity and Pluripotency
Authors: Sakaloglou Prodromos , Lazaros Leandros , Bouba Ioanna , Markoula Sofia , Zikopoulos Athanasios , Drakaki Eirini , Anagnostaki Ismini , Potiris Anastasios , Stavros Sofoklis , Gerede Angeliki , Domali Ekaterini , Drakakis Peter , Tzavaras Theodoros , Georgiou Ioannis
Published: November 2024

Retrotransposable elements are implicated in genome rearrangements and gene expression alterations that result in various human disorders. In the current study, we sought to investigate the potential effects of long interspersed elements-1 (LINE-1) overexpression on the integrity and methylation of DNA and on the expression of three major pluripotency factors (OCT4, SOX2, NANOG) during the preimplantation stages of human embryo development. Human MI oocytes were matured in vitro to MII and transfected through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) either with an EGFP vector carrying a cloned active human LINE-1 retroelement or with the same EGFP vector without insert as control. The occurrence of retrotransposition events was screened by fluorescent microscopy. The in vitro preimplantation development as well as the methylation, pluripotency, and DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) of the transfected embryos were examined. LINE-1 retrotransposons gave rise to new retrotransposition events in the transfected embryos. LINE-1 injected embryos were characterized by accelerated asymmetrical cell division, multiple cellular fragments, cleavage arrest, and degeneration. Early OCT4 expression remained unaltered, but cleavage arrest and a high fragmentation rate hindered the expression of SOX2/NANOG at the morula stage. Increased DNA DSBs were observed in cleavage-stage blastomeres, while no methylation changes were detected before the cleavage arrest. Our data provide evidence that LINE-1 retrotransposition in human preimplantation embryos may induce DNA DSBs, while at the same time, it appears to interfere with the expression patterns of pluripotency factors. The morphological, structural, and cleavage abnormalities of the transfected embryos show that aberrant retroelement expression may negatively affect human embryo development.
Effects of an Innovative High-Fat Diet on Intestinal Structure, Barrier Integrity, and Inflammation in a Zebrafish Model of Visceral Obesity
Authors: Smolińska Katarzyna , Hułas-Stasiak Monika , Dobrowolska Katarzyna , Sobczyński Jan , Szopa Aleksandra , Tomaszewska Ewa , Muszyński Siemowit , Smoliński Kacper , Dobrowolski Piotr
Published: November 2024

High-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity is a global health concern associated with gastrointestinal disorders. While mammalian models have elucidated the effects of a HFD on intestinal structure and function, its impact on zebrafish, a crucial model for studying diet-induced obesity and gastrointestinal dysfunction, remains inadequately characterized. This study investigated the influence of a HFD on zebrafish intestinal morphology, tight junction (TJ) protein expression, and inflammatory markers. Zebrafish fed a control diet or HFD with 40% or 60% fat exhibited significant alterations in intestinal morphology, with increased villi number but reduced villi width and length, suggesting compensatory responses to dietary stress. TJ protein expression (Claudin 2, Claudin 3, and Claudin 10) showed complex changes, particularly in the HFD60 juvenile group, indicating a multifaceted response in barrier integrity. Pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 and TNF-α levels were lower in both the juvenile and adult HFD60 groups than in the HFD40 and control groups, while elevated anti-inflammatory IL-10 levels in HFD60 adult zebrafish suggested activation of compensatory mechanisms. These findings highlight zebrafish as a valuable model for studying the effects of HFD on intestinal health and provide insights into the relationship between dietary fat, gut dysfunction, and inflammation.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms on Toll-like Receptor-4 and the Risk of Developing Skin Cancer
Authors: Yusuf Nabiha , Sharafeldin Noha , Saleem Mohammad , Callens Tom , Messiaen Ludwine M. , Elmets Craig A.
Published: November 2024

Exposure to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation is an established risk factor for skin cancer. Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4)-mediated immune dysregulation has emerged as a key mechanism for the detrimental effects of acute and chronic UV exposure and skin cancer in mice. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on the TLR4 gene have been reported to increase or decrease susceptibility to various cancers in other organs. There is limited information on TLR4 SNPs and susceptibility to human keratinocyte carcinomas. The study’s objective is to test the association between TLR4 SNPs and the risk of developing keratinocyte carcinomas. Skin cancer patients and controls at the University of Alabama at Birmingham completed a cross-sectional survey on personal and family history of skin cancer as well as on sunscreen use and tanning proneness. Peripheral blood samples were obtained from participants, and DNA was extracted to genotype the TLR4 SNPs. Descriptive analytics were used to describe the cohort. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the association between TLR4 SNPs and skin cancer risk. The sample consisted of a cohort of 93 skin cancer patients over the age of 50 and 94 controls; 33.3% of cases and 44.7% of controls were females; 12.9% of cases and 17% of controls had a TLR4 SNP. The most common SNP was D299G/T399I in 9.7% of skin cancer patients and 13.8% of controls. We did not find a statistically significant association between the D299G/T399I SNP and skin cancer (odds ratio (OR) = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.11, 1.07, p = 0.065) adjusting for age, sex, eye color, actinic keratosis, sunscreen use and reapplication, and family history of skin cancer. Based on our findings from our limited cohort of participants, we found some protective effect for the TLR4 SNP for skin cancer, which was not statistically significant. Validation of these findings in a larger cohort is warranted.
The Electronic Properties and Adsorption Performance of LDH/Graphene, and LDH/g-C3N4 for the Removal of Pharmaceutical Contaminants: A Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Ibrahim Qusai , Gharbia Salem
Published: November 2024

Water shortages and pharmaceutical pollution are two interconnected crises that pose severe threats to global health, environmental sustainability, and economic stability. Pharmaceutical pollution is widespread and has reached potentially toxic levels in over 258 rivers in 104 countries. So far, more interest has been paid towards efficient water treatment processes in recent years. In this study, we explore the efficacy of layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanocomposites with graphene and graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) as promising adsorbents of pharmaceutical contaminants. The LDH nanocomposite has been designed and simulated for the first time, consisting of two layers of sodium hydroxide with a layer of graphene and g-C3N4. We investigated the adsorption performance of LDH, specifically LDH/graphene and LDH/g-C3N4, for the removal of pharmaceutical contaminants including acetaminophen (AC), caffeine (CAF), and sulfamethoxazole (SMZ). Through comprehensive molecular dynamics simulations using the reactive forcefield (ReaxFF) software, we investigated the adsorption mechanisms, kinetics, and adsorption capacity of pharmaceutical contaminants onto these nanocomposite surfaces. Our findings showed that the combination of LDH/graphene had a higher adsorption capacity for the removal of pharmaceutical contaminants than LDH/g-C3N4. At 70 Picoseconds (Ps), 124, 129, and 142 molecules of each of the pharmaceutical contaminants AC, CAF and SMZ, respectively, had been adsorbed by LDH/graphene, with a higher exothermic energy equating to −1111, −1015, and −1150 × 103 kJ/mol, respectively. On the other hand, for LDH/g-C3N4 at 70 Ps, 108, 110, and 120 molecules of AC, CAF and SMZ, respectively, had been adsorbed, with exothermic energy equating to −978, −948, and −1173 × 103 kJ/mol, respectively. Finally, we calculated the electronic properties, including the band gap and density of state of the nanocomposite materials, to check their effect on the adsorption process. In addition, the results showed that the adsorption kinetics followed a pseudo-first-order model, while the adsorption isotherms for AC, CAF and SMZ adhered to the Langmuir model.
Role of Fatty Acids β-Oxidation in the Metabolic Interactions Between Organs
Authors: Panov Alexander V. , Mayorov Vladimir I. , Dikalov Sergey I.
Published: November 2024

In recent decades, several discoveries have been made that force us to reconsider old ideas about mitochondria and energy metabolism in the light of these discoveries. In this review, we discuss metabolic interaction between various organs, the metabolic significance of the primary substrates and their metabolic pathways, namely aerobic glycolysis, lactate shuttling, and fatty acids β-oxidation. We rely on the new ideas about the supramolecular structure of the mitochondrial respiratory chain (respirasome), the necessity of supporting substrates for fatty acids β-oxidation, and the reverse electron transfer via succinate dehydrogenase during β-oxidation. We conclude that ATP production during fatty acid β-oxidation has its upper limits and thus cannot support high energy demands alone. Meanwhile, β-oxidation creates conditions that significantly accelerate the cycle: glucose-aerobic glycolysis-lactate-gluconeogenesis-glucose. Therefore, glycolytic ATP production becomes an important energy source in high energy demand. In addition, lactate serves as a mitochondrial substrate after converting to pyruvate + H+ by the mitochondrial lactate dehydrogenase. All coupled metabolic pathways are irreversible, and the enzymes are organized into multienzyme structures.