bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Navigating the Unstructured by Evaluating AlphaFold’s Efficacy in Predicting Missing Residues and Structural Disorder in Proteins
Authors: Zheng Sen
Published: November 2024

This study explored the difference between predicted structure confidence and disorder detection in protein, focusing on regions with undefined structures detected as missing segments in X-ray crystallography and Cryo-EM data. Recognizing the importance of these ‘unstructured’ regions for protein functionality, we examined the alignment of numerous protein sequences with their resolved or not structures. The research utilized a comprehensive PDB dataset, classifying residues into ‘modeled’, ‘hard missing’ and ‘soft missing’ based on their visibility in structural data. By analysis, key features were firstly determined, including confidence score pLDDT from Al-phaFold2, an advanced AI-based tool, and IUPred, a conventional disorder prediction method. Our analysis reveals that "hard missing" residues often reside in low-confidence regions, but are not exclusively associated with disorder predictions. It was assessed how effectively individual key features can distinguish between structured and unstructured data, as well as the potential benefits of combining these features for advanced machine learning applications. This approach aims to uncover varying correlations across different experimental methodologies in the latest structural data. By analyzing the relationships between predictions and experimental structures, we can more effectively identify structural targets within proteins, guiding experimental designs toward areas of potential functional significance, whether they exhibit high stability or crucial unstructured regions.
How food delivery service can be sustainable: some evidence from the Giusta delivery case
Authors: Prisco Anna , Troise Ciro , Monge Filippo , Giovando Guido
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The study explores the drivers of the intention to continue using sustainable food delivery services, considering the influence of value, satisfaction and the combined effects of utilitarian and hedonic motives. We employ a comprehensive framework that integrates the norm activation model (NAM) and the theory of planned behavior (TPB), with satisfaction, utilitarian motives and hedonic motives. This approach facilitates a deeper understanding of the factors motivating users to remain loyal to the service.

Design/methodology/approach

The study examines the data using a quantitative approach based on the partial least squares approach to structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The findings suggest that the intention to continue using sustainable food delivery services, such as the Giusta app, is significantly influenced by user satisfaction and attitudes. Attitudes not only influence the intention but also user satisfaction and are shaped by utilitarian motivations associated with sustainable food delivery. Beyond personal expectations and perceived benefits, the study reveals that behavior is also driven by altruistic values and moral convictions. Specifically, attitudes and satisfaction are positively affected by personal norms, which are influenced by ascribed responsibility. This ascribed responsibility is, in turn, shaped by awareness of both environmental and social issues.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the current debate on consumers' ethical behavior in food delivery. Only a few studies have integrated the NAM and TPB models in this context. This article highlights the factors useful in predicting people’s choice of food delivery services, showing the key role of personal norms, attitude, satisfaction and utilitarian motives.
Artificial intelligence models to predict optimal trade-off on construction management
Authors: Pham Vu Hong Son , Ngoc Quynh Khoi Luu
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This research aims to introduce a novel algorithm, the Chaotic Giant Pacific Octopus Optimizer (CGPOO) and demonstrate framework includes four key aspects: time, cost, quality and safety trade-off (TCQST).

Design/methodology/approach

Artificial intelligence is causing a big disruption in the construction management. It is being used to building projects to enhance efficiency, safety and decision-making. This research compared the CGPOO method to those of other algorithms, such as the Chaotic Slime Mold Algorithm (CSMA), the Chaotic Salps Swarm Algorithm (CSSA) and the Chaotic Whale Optimization Algorithm (CWOA) and assessed the efficacy of the method using statistical analysis and evaluation indicators such as Hyper-volumn (HV), Spread (Sp), Computational Time (CT) and C-metric.

Findings

The analysis demonstrates that using CGPOO outperforms standalone methods chosen from the literature in terms of outcomes. It is discovered that the CGPOO solution possibilities for each factors are more efficient and beneficial than the comparison algorithms. Moreover, the CGPOO model performs better than the other algorithms with quality indices C-metric, Sp, HV and CT of 0.534, 0.531, 0.891 and 101.

Originality/value

The article presents a novel hybrid CGPOO that permits multi-factor trade-offs in construction management with the goal of surpassing the analyzed models and optimizing the optimal solution in the search space.
““The last bastion of democracy”: teachers’ perceptions of the democratic potential of English curriculum”
Authors: Barton Georgina , Riddle Stewart , Lowien Nathan
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Faced with increasing systemic constraints and pressures, secondary school English teachers often implement transactional approaches to pedagogy and curriculum aimed at improving student results on external exams, which are then used to rank schools. Despite the pressure to teach this way, teachers acknowledge the power of literature, literacy and language in the English curriculum as vehicles for educating students to be critical readers of texts for a democratic society. As such, the purpose of this paper is to share perspectives of secondary English teachers in relation to the democratic potential of their subject.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative case study method, this paper shares data from six Australian secondary school English teachers who work in culturally diverse schools. Teachers were interviewed about their perspectives regarding how the Australian English curriculum enabled and/or constrained the teaching of critical and creative thinking in support of a democratic society.

Findings

Using Marri’s model of multicultural democratic education, interview data were deductively analyzed to identify elements of the model, including critical pedagogies, disciplinary content and community building. Teachers were concerned that building critical literacy skills was minimized by the system and students’ personal dispositions.

Originality/value

The English teachers in this study held a strong belief that the subject of English could emancipate students, although they felt it might be “the last bastion” for a democratic education.
Study on the accurate detection method of full‐polarimetric ground‐penetrating radar faults in mines based on modified Yamaguchi decomposition
Authors: Wang Ran , Cui Fan , Dong Guoqi , Cheng Qi , Zhang Guixin , Wang Xuhao , Zhao Xiaoxue
Published: November 2024

Obtaining information on tectonic tendencies is a prerequisite for intelligent and accurate mining in mines. In the special mine environment, the co‐polarized ground‐penetrating radar can only identify the spatial location of faults, and it is difficult to analyse the inclination information of fault structures. This paper proposes a mine full‐polarimetric ground‐penetrating radar fault tendency detection method based on this. First, based on the stacking characteristics of the coal depositional, this paper analyses the propagation law of the pulse electromagnetic wave in the coal seam and puts forward the assumption of the overlapping echo reflection of the fault structure. The reasonableness of the fault reflection assumption is verified through a numerical simulation study. Second, based on the cutting relationship of the fault to the coal seam, we divided the reflection structure of the fault structure into plane scattering and dihedral angle scattering. We realized the mingled echoes’ decomposition using the improved Yamaguchi decomposition technique. To analyse the applicability of the modified Yamaguchi and Freeman decomposition methods in the identification of fault inclination, we use the upright fault simulation data for the discussion, and we find that the improved Yamaguchi decomposition method is more advantageous in the identification of fault inclination in the mine. The decomposition results based on the simulation data of fault models with different dip angles found that when the dip angle of the fault is less than 90°, the scattering of the fault structure is dominated by planar scattering and dihedral angle scattering; when the dip angle of the fault is greater than or equal to 90°, the scattering of the fault structure is dominated by planar scattering, and the scattering power of the dihedral angle model is zero. By analysing the effect of fault strike on the decomposition results, it is found that the fault strike angle has little effect on the identification of fault tendency. Finally, the application potential of this paper's method is tested by constructing complex numerical models and probing experiments. Therefore, the method proposed in this paper can solve the fault tendency identification under a thick coal seam.
Aridity and forest age mediate landscape scale patterns of tropical forest resistance to cyclonic storms
Authors: Vargas G. German , Marcano‐Vega Humfredo , Ruzycki Tom , Wood Tana E. , Anderegg William R. L. , Powers Jennifer S. , Helmer Eileen H.
Published: November 2024

Cyclonic storms, or hurricanes, are expected to intensify as ocean heat energy rises due to climate change. Ecological theory suggests that tropical forest resistance to hurricanes should increase with forest age and wood density. However, most data on hurricane effects on tropical forests come from a limited number of well‐studied long‐term monitoring sites, restricting our capacity to evaluate the resistance of tropical forests to hurricanes across broad environmental gradients.

In this study, we assessed whether forest age and aridity mediate the effects of hurricanes Irma and Maria in Puerto Rico, Vieques and Culebra islands. We leveraged functional trait data for 410 tree species, remotely sensed measurements of canopy height and cover, along with data on forest stand characteristics of 180 of 338 forest monitoring plots, each covering an area of 0.067 ha. The plots represent a broad mean annual precipitation (MAP) gradient from 701 to 4598 mm and a complex mosaic of forest age from 5 to around 85 years since deforestation.

Hurricanes resulted in a 25% increase in basal area mortality rates, a 45% decrease in canopy height and a 21% reduction in canopy cover. These effects intensified with forest age, even after considering proximity to the hurricane path. The links between forest age and hurricane disturbances were likely due the prevalence of tall canopies.

Tall forest canopies were strongly linked with low community‐weighted wood density (WD). These characteristics were on average more common in moist and wet forests (MAP >1250 mm). Conversely, dry forests were dominated by short species with high wood density (WD > 0.6 g cm−3) and did not show significant increases in basal area mortality rates after the hurricanes.

Synthesis. Our findings show that selection towards drought‐tolerant traits across aridity gradients, such as short stature and dense wood, enhances resistance to hurricanes. However, forest age modulated responses to hurricanes, with older forests being less resistant across the islands. This evidence highlights the importance of considering the intricate links between ecological succession and plant function when forecasting tropical forests’ responses to increasingly strong hurricanes.
Deterrence and behavioral mode of coconut oil‐derived free fatty acids on Zeugodacus cucurbitae oviposition
Authors: Movva Vijaya , Zhu Junwei , Roda Amy , Kendra Paul , Yang Xiangbing , Cloonan Kevin , Tay Jia‐Wei , Cha Dong H.
Published: November 2024

Previous studies have shown oviposition deterring properties of 8 coconut free fatty acid (CFFA) compounds on fruit flies with different key deterrent components for different species. Here we evaluated oviposition deterrence of CFFA using laboratory 2‐choice bioassays against Zeugodacus cucurbitae, determined key‐bioactive deterrent compounds, and evaluated their behavioral mode. Unlike other reported fruit fly species, CFFA mixture increased Z. cucurbitae oviposition when directly applied on an oviposition substrate. When tested individually in subsequent tests, 4 compounds (caprylic, capric, oleic, and linoleic acids) significantly reduced the oviposition (“negative‐compounds”), 1 compound (stearic acid) had no effect (“neutral‐compound”), and 3 compounds (lauric, myristic, and palmitic acids) stimulated the oviposition (“positive‐compounds”). The 4‐component negative‐compound blend was effective at reducing oviposition. However, adding stearic acid to the 4‐component blend (5‐component blend, 5c) further reduced oviposition. Adding any of the positive‐compounds to the 5c resulted in loss of oviposition deterrence, suggesting the 5c as the key deterrent component blend. The blend was also effective in no‐choice assays and when applied on cucumbers, a preferred host of Z. cucurbitae. When given a choice, Z. cucurbitae made 48.5% fewer visits, spent 39% less time, and oviposited 88.2% fewer eggs per min on 5c treated pumpkin agar than on control agar, suggesting that the 5c blend has both spatial repellency and contact deterrence. Given that all compounds are registered food additives and generally regarded as safe, this blend has potential application in behavioral control strategies, such as push–pull, to protect host fruit against Z. cucurbitae.
Why the Administrative Burden of Cross Compliance Matters
Authors: El Benni Nadja , Ritzel Christian , Mack Gabriele
Published: November 2024

The administrative burden imposed by the direct payment system is a major concern highlighted in recent farmers’ protests. Based on a survey of 808 Swiss farmers, we analyse farmers’ perceptions of the administrative burden associated with the direct payment system and how this affects the costs and farmers’ views and reactions to the policy. Our results show that the perceived administrative burden varies among farmers and is not strongly related to the actual time spent on forms. Well‐trained and informed farmers find administrative tasks less burdensome. The bureaucracy involved in agricultural policy matters not only because it increases farmers’ perceived administrative burden but also because it leads to dissatisfaction with the government. Overall, we estimate the private administrative costs of cross‐compliance obligations for Switzerland to be about 5 per cent of the annual Swiss budget for direct payments. To reduce farmers’ perceived administrative burden, policymakers should prioritise reducing compliance costs, which will also reduce psychological costs. Digitalisation can help achieve this outcome, but its success depends on farmers’ knowledge of information and communication technologies. Knowledge, administrative efficiency and perceived legitimacy are crucial for reducing non‐compliance with direct payment regulations. Addressing these factors will help improve the effectiveness of agricultural policies.
Lipoxygenase activity in tropical fish: Changes during surimi processing and some biochemical characterization in lizardfish (Saurida tumbil)
Authors: Karbsri Wilaiwan , Hamzeh Ali , Park Jae W. , Yin Tao , Yongsawatdigul Jirawat
Published: November 2024

The lipoxygenase (LOX) activity of major tropical fish used for surimi production, including threadfin bream (TB), lizardfish (LZ), and goatfish (GF), was measured in the gills, skin, and muscle. The highest LOX activity was observed in the LZ samples (p < 0.05), with the gills exhibiting the greatest activity at 376.56 U/mg (p < 0.05). The highest peroxide value was detected in the TB samples, particularly in the gills (p < 0.05). Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) were the main polyunsaturated fatty acids in all the tissues and surimi. The total lipid and DHA contents of washed mince reduced considerably after the screw press process. Although LOX activity decreased during surimi production, a residual activity of 21.33 U/g was observed in the finished surimi. LOX was partially purified and characterized from LZ gills. The purification was conducted using two successive chromatographic steps, Sephacryl S‐200 and diethylaminoethyl (DEAE)–sepharose, resulting in a 3.52% yield and a 22.43‐fold increase in purity. The optimum activity was found at 25°C and pH 7.5, with pH stability between 6.0 and 8.5. The relatively high thermal stability at 4°C–10°C suggested that LOX might contribute to fish lipid oxidation during cold storage. The enzyme was thermally inactivated at 60°C. The preferred substrate was EPA. LOX from the LZ gills was inhibited by 1 mM ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and activated by 1 mM Fe2+, Na+, and Ca2+.

Practical Application

Elucidating lipoxygenase activity and lipid oxidation in various tropical fish tissues, as well as understanding the characteristics of LOX, can help take appropriate postharvest actions to afford high‐quality surimi.
Metabolic engineering of Streptomyces roseosporus for increased production of clinically important antibiotic daptomycin
Authors: Li Xingwang , Sang Ziwei , Zhao Xuejin , Wen Ying
Published: November 2024

Daptomycin (DAP), a novel cyclic lipopeptide antibiotic produced by Streptomyces roseosporus, is clinically important for treatment of infections caused by multidrug‐resistant Gram‐positive pathogens, but the low yield hampers its large‐scale industrial production. Here, we describe a combination metabolic engineering strategy for constructing a DAP high‐yielding strain. Initially, we enhanced aspartate (Asp) precursor supply in S. roseosporus wild‐type (WT) strain by separately inhibiting Asp degradation and competitive pathway genes using CRISPRi and overexpressing Asp synthetic pathway genes using strong promoter kasOp*. The resulting strains all showed increased DAP titre. Combined inhibition of acsA4, pta, pyrB, and pyrC increased DAP titre to 167.4 μg/mL (73.5% higher than WT value). Co‐overexpression of aspC, gdhA, ppc, and ecaA led to DAP titre 168 μg/mL (75.7% higher than WT value). Concurrently, we constructed a chassis strain favourable for DAP production by abolishing by‐product production (i.e., deleting a 21.1 kb region of the red pigment biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC)) and engineering the DAP BGC (i.e., replacing its native dptEp with kasOp*). Titre for the resulting chassis strain reached 185.8 μg/mL. Application of our Asp precursor supply strategies to the chassis strain further increased DAP titre to 302 μg/mL (2.1‐fold higher than WT value). Subsequently, we cloned the engineered DAP BGC and duplicated it in the chassis strain, leading to DAP titre 274.6 μg/mL. The above strategies, in combination, resulted in maximal DAP titre 350.7 μg/mL (2.6‐fold higher than WT value), representing the highest reported DAP titre in shake‐flask fermentation. These findings provide an efficient combination strategy for increasing DAP production and can also be readily applied in the overproduction of other Asp‐related antibiotics.
The prognostic implications of podoplanin in cancer‐associated fibroblasts and PD‐L1 expression in high‐grade neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung
Authors: Miyamoto Tatsuya , Haruki Tomohiro , Makishima Karen , Matsui Shinji , Oshima Yuki , Umekita Yoshihisa , Nakamura Hiroshige
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Podoplanin (PDPN) expression in cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) (CAF‐PDPN) is considered a poor prognostic factor in nonsmall cell lung cancer, but little is known about its clinical significance in high‐grade neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung (HGNEC). This study examines the association between CAF‐PDPN and stromal programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression and the prognostic implications of CAF‐PDPN and PD‐L1 expression status in surgically resected HGNEC patients.

Methods

Immunohistochemical analyses were performed on 121 resected HGNEC specimens using antibodies against PDPN and PD‐L1. Correlations between CAF‐PDPN, stromal PD‐L1 expression, and clinicopathologic features and their implications for survival were analyzed statistically.

Results

There were substantially more large‐cell neuroendocrine carcinomas in the stromal PD‐L1‐positive group and more vascular invasion in the tumoral PD‐L1‐positive group. PDPN expression in CAF was moderately correlated with stromal PD‐L1 expression (ρ = 0.567, p < 0.001). In a survival analysis combining CAF‐PDPN and stromal PD‐L1 status, the 5‐year RFS rates for Group A: CAF‐PDPN (+)/stromal PD‐L1 (+), Group B: CAF‐PDPN (+)/stromal PD‐L1 (−), Group C: CAF‐PDPN (−)/stromal PD‐L1 (+), and Group D: CAF‐PDPN (−)/stromal PD‐L1 (−) were 62.0%, 46.8%, 17.5%, and 20.2%, respectively, with corresponding 5‐year OS rates of 76.6%, 69.2%, 27.0%, and 25.3%. The log‐rank test showed statistically significant differences among the groups in RFS (p < 0.001) and OS (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

There is a correlation between CAF‐PDPN and tumoral/stromal PD‐L1 expression, and positive status for either CAF‐PDPN or stromal PD‐L1 expression could be an independent favorable prognostic factor in surgically resected HGNEC patients.
Failure rate of D‐dimer testing in patients with high clinical probability of pulmonary embolism: Ancillary analysis of three European studies
Authors: Bannelier Héloïse , Kapfer Thomas , Roussel Mélanie , Freund Yonathan , Alame Karine , Catoire Pierre , Vromant Amélie
Published: November 2024

Background

In patients with a high clinical probability of pulmonary embolism (PE), the high prevalence can lower the D‐dimer negative predictive value and increase the risk of diagnostic failure. It is therefore recommended that these high‐risk patients should undergo chest imaging without D‐dimer testing although no evidence supports this recommendation.

Objective

The objective was to evaluate the safety of ruling out PE based on D‐dimer testing among patients with a high clinical probability of PE.

Methods

This was a post hoc analysis of three European studies (PROPER, MODIGLIANI, and TRYSPEED). Patients were included if they presented a high clinical probability of PE (according to either the Wells or the revised Geneva score) and underwent D‐dimer testing. The D‐dimer–based strategy ruled out PE if the D‐dimer level was below the age‐adjusted threshold (i.e., <500 ng/mL in patients aged less than 50 and age × 10 ng/mL in patients older than 50).

The primary endpoint was a thromboembolic event in patients with negative D‐dimer either at index visit or at 3‐month follow‐up. A Bayesian approach estimated the probability that the failure rate of the D‐dimer–based strategy was below 2% given observed data.

Results

Among the 12,300 patients included in the PROPER, MODIGLIANI, and TRYSPEED studies, 651 patients (median age 68 years, 60% female) had D‐dimer testing and a high clinical probability of PE and were included in the study. PE prevalence was 31.3%. Seventy patients had D‐dimer levels under the age‐adjusted threshold, and none of them had a PE after follow‐up (failure rate 0.0% [95% CI 0.0%–6.5%]). Bayesian analysis reported a credible interval of 0.0%–4.1%, with a 76.2% posterior probability of a failure rate below 2%.

Conclusions

In this study, ruling out PE in high‐risk patients based on D‐dimer below the age‐adjusted threshold was safe, with no missed PE. However, the large CI of the primary endpoint precludes a definitive conclusion.
Family Nurture Intervention and mother–preterm infant autonomic emotional connection in the neonatal intensive care unit: A review
Authors: Woodward Lianne J. , Ludwig Robert J. , Gong Alice , Myers Michael M. , Welch Martha G.
Published: November 2024

Aim

We review methods and outcomes of a novel parenting intervention, Family Nurture Intervention (FNI), that promotes early mother–infant autonomic co‐regulation and emotional connection in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Methods

FNI involves individualised mother–infant calming sessions combined with maternal emotional expression. Two parallel group randomised controlled trials have evaluated FNI. The first, recruited 150 preterm newborns (26–34 weeks GA) and their mothers, randomised into two groups: FNI (n = 78) and Standard Care (SC) only (n = 72). Dyadic, infant and maternal outcomes were assessed at discharge, 18‐months and 4–5 years corrected age. The second,recruited 135 infants from two level 4 NICUs (FNI n = 66, SC n = 69) with similar outcomes assessed at discharge/term equivalent.

Results

Relative to SC, FNI infants showed improved development and relational health through 5 years. At term age, FNI infants had better autonomic regulation and more mature brain activity and cortical connectivity on EEG. FNI mothers also reported fewer anxiety and depression symptoms post‐discharge. At 18‐month, FNI infants obtained higher cognitive and language scores, and lower attention and social behaviour scores than SC infants.

Conclusions

FNI improves the early life development and relational health of high‐risk preterm infants. Further research is important to assess its efficacy in other high‐risk populations and contexts.
The effectiveness and acceptability of formal versus informal mindfulness among university students with and without recent self‐injury: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Petrovic Julia , Mettler Jessica , Böke Bilun Naz , Rogers Maria A. , Hamza Chloe A. , Bloom Elana , Di Genova Lina , Romano Vera , Heath Nancy L.
Published: November 2024

Mindfulness instruction comprising both formal (FM) and informal (IM) mindfulness practice is increasingly offered to university students. FM involves sustaining attention on thoughts, emotions and bodily sensations through structured practices, while IM involves incorporating mindfulness into daily activities. However, recent evidence suggests that FM may pose challenges for students with recent non‐suicidal self‐injury (NSSI), whereas the flexibility and brevity inherent in IM may be better tolerated. This randomized controlled trial compared a FM induction, IM induction and control task among university students with (n = 103) and without (n = 123) past‐year NSSI in terms of acceptability and pre‐post state mindfulness, stress and well‐being. Notably, results did not differ as a function of NSSI history. Two‐way ANOVAs revealed that only IM was consistently preferred over the control task. Furthermore, three‐way mixed ANOVAs revealed that—when assessed using brief Visual Analogue Scales—state well‐being increased in all conditions, state mindfulness increased after both IM and FM, and state stress only decreased after IM. Notably, these differences by condition appeared to be of short duration as they were not found with lengthier measures. Results highlight the potential promise of IM and the importance of measurement selection when assessing the transient effects of mindfulness inductions in research.
The horror of today and the terror of tomorrow: The role of future existential risks and present‐day political risks in climate activism
Authors: Uysal Mete Sefa , Martinez Nuria , Vestergren Sara
Published: November 2024

In response to the urgent global climate crisis, climate activism has risen as a potent force. Decision‐making regarding climate collective action includes individuals' perceptions of the anticipated future existential risks of the climate crisis (risk of inaction) and present‐day political risks of climate activism (risk of action). Our research, spanning four studies (two correlational surveys and two pre‐registered experiments), focused on climate activism in Germany (N = 1027). We consistently showed that heightened politicized activist identification was associated with both confrontational and non‐confrontational climate collective action across four studies. Furthermore, the anticipated existential climate risk was associated with non‐confrontational climate action and present‐day political risk with confrontational action. Politicized climate identity remained a robust predictor across different action tactics, while the content and temporality of risk (future existential vs. present‐day political) in one's environment determined the transition between engagement in confrontational and non‐confrontational climate action dynamically. Nevertheless, we did not find causal links between risk perceptions and collective action. We discuss our findings in line with ESIM (Elaborated Social Identity Model), and potential explanations for the lack of causal relationship and future directions for alternative methodologies and comprehensive conceptualization of risk perceptions are suggested.
Cognitive improvement via cortical cannabinoid receptors and choline‐containing lipids
Authors: Moreno‐Rodríguez Marta , Martínez‐Gardeazabal Jonatan , Bengoetxea de Tena Iker , Llorente‐Ovejero Alberto , Lombardero Laura , González de San Román Estibaliz , Giménez‐Llort Lydia , Manuel Iván , Rodríguez‐Puertas Rafael
Published: November 2024

Background and Purpose

Recent research linking choline‐containing lipids to degeneration of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons in neuropathological states illustrates the challenge of balancing lipid integrity with optimal acetylcholine levels, essential for memory preservation. The endocannabinoid system influences learning and memory processes regulated by cholinergic neurotransmission. Therefore, we hypothesised that activation of the endocannabinoid system may confer neuroprotection against cholinergic degeneration.

Experimental Approach

We examined the neuroprotective potential of sub‐chronic treatments with the cannabinoid agonist WIN55,212‐2, using ex vivo organotypic tissue cultures including nucleus basalis magnocellularis and cortex and in vivo rat models of specific cholinergic damage induced by 192IgG‐saporin. Levels of lipids, choline and acetylcholine were measured with histochemical and immunofluorescence assays, along with [35S]GTPγS autoradiography of cannabinoid and muscarinic GPCRs and MALDI‐mass spectrometry imaging analysis. Learning and memory were assessed by the Barnes maze and the novel object recognition test in rats and in the 3xTg‐AD mouse model.

Key Results

Degeneration, induced by 192IgG‐saporin, of baso‐cortical cholinergic pathways resulted in memory deficits and decreased cortical levels of lysophosphatidylcholines (LPC). WIN55,212‐2 restored cortical cholinergic transmission and LPC levels via activation of cannabinoid receptors. This activation altered cortical lipid homeostasis mainly by reducing sphingomyelins in lesioned animals. These modifications were crucial for memory recovery.

Conclusion and Implications

We hypothesise that WIN55,212‐2 facilitates an alternative choline source by breaking down sphingomyelins, leading to elevated cortical acetylcholine levels and LPCs. These results imply that altering choline‐containing lipids via activation of cannabinoid receptors presents a promising therapeutic approach for dementia linked to cholinergic dysfunction.
Zymogen granule protein 16B (ZG16B) is a druggable epigenetic target to modulate the mammary extracellular matrix
Authors: Lengyel Máté , Molnár Ádám , Nagy Tamás , Jdeed Sham , Garai Ildikó , Horváth Zsolt , Uray Iván P.
Published: November 2024

High tissue density of the mammary gland is considered a pro‐tumorigenic factor, hence suppressing the stimuli that induce matrix buildup carries the potential for cancer interception. We found that in non‐malignant mammary epithelial cells the combination of the chemopreventive agents bexarotene (Bex) and carvedilol (Carv) suppresses the zymogen granule protein 16B (ZG16B, PAUF) through an interaction of ARID1A with a proximal enhancer. Bex + Carv also reduced ZG16B levels in vivo in normal breast tissue and MDA‐MB231 tumor xenografts. The relevance of ZG16B is underscored by ongoing clinical trials targeting ZG16B in pancreatic cancers, but its role in breast cancer development is unclear. In immortalized mammary epithelial cells, secreted recombinant ZG16B stimulated mitogenic kinase phosphorylation, detachment and mesenchymal characteristics, and promoted proliferation, motility and clonogenic growth. Highly concerted induction of specific laminin, collagen and integrin isoforms indicated a shift in matrix properties toward increased density and cell‐matrix interactions. Exogenous ZG16B alone blocked Bex + Carv‐mediated control of cell growth and migration, and antagonized Bex + Carv‐induced gene programs regulating cell adhesion and migration. In breast cancer cells ZG16B induced colony formation and anchorage‐independent growth, and stimulated migration in a PI3K/Akt‐dependent manner. In contrast, Bex + Carv inhibited colony formation, reduced Ki67 levels, ZG16B expression and glucose uptake in MDA‐MB231 xenografts. These data establish ZG16B as a druggable pro‐tumorigenic target in breast cell transformation and suggest a key role of the matrisome network in rexinoid‐dependent antitumor activity.
Mitotic Arrest Deficient 2 Like 1 Contributes to Colorectal Cancer Cell Migration, Invasion, and Oxaliplatin Resistance Through the Wnt/β‐Catenin Pathway
Authors: Ding Xiang , Zhou Yonggui , He Linfang , Kang Hubin , Wen Youwu , Xu Jia , Zhu Congbo , Luo Libing , Zeng Qingjun
Published: November 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a highly prevalent malignancy, requiring chemotherapy for advanced stages of the disease. Previously, we found that mitotic arrest deficient 2 like 1 (MAD2L1) was upregulated and facilitated malignant proliferation in CRC. However, the association between MAD2L1 expression and tumor progression, as well as chemotherapy resistance in CRC, remains unclear. The progression capacities of CRC cells were assessed using transwell and wound healing assays, and the resistance to cisplatin in oxaliplatin‐resistant CRC cells was assessed using CCK‐8 assay and flow cytometry. Relevant protein levels of epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and Wnt/β‐catenin pathway were analyzed using western blotting. Revealing the impact of MAD2L1 on metastasis and drug resistance in CRC through inhibition of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway. Knockdown of MAD2L1 attenuated the malignant progression of CRC cells, inhibited EMT, and blocked the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway. MAD2L1 was significantly upregulated in oxaliplatin‐resistant CRC cells, accompanied by the activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway. Knockdown of MAD2L1 effectively reversed oxaliplatin resistance, leading to apoptosis and downregulation of the protein expression levels of β‐catenin, P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp), and ABCG2. After the knockdown of MAD2L1, the inhibition of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway exhibited a synergistic effect, effectively suppressing malignant progression and reversing oxaliplatin resistance in CRC cells. So, knockdown of MAD2L1 suppressed cell malignant progression, equally sensitized resistant CRC cells to oxaliplatin, potentially by blocking the activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway.
University‐based academic programs in addiction studies in the regions of Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand: An overview
Authors: Lososová Amalie , Adams Peter , Miovský Michal
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Current trends in the addiction field reflect a significant emphasis on the workforce development and education. There are already some data about university‐based addiction studies programs, but not much from Australasia.

Methods

The aim is to provide an overview and describe the academic programs for addiction professionals in Australia and Aotearoa NZ. The research was conducted in 2017 and updated in 2023. Firstly, university websites were searched using pre‐defined keywords, followed by a content analysis of the identified programs. The data were analysed and interpreted by using descriptive statistics.

Results

We found 21 universities in Australia (13) and Aotearoa NZ (8) where 46 single programs are provided. There are three bachelor programs, nine masters, and the majority of degrees include (post)graduate certificates and diplomas. No doctorate programs are identified. The taught courses provide comprehensive coverage of the addiction field topics. Twelve programs state clearly that there is clinical practice/internship included. Application to most programs requires completion of a relevant degree and in some cases possible clinical experience.

Discussion and Conclusions

In comparison to educational options in other regions, we observe a trend towards preparing university graduates for the workforce, thereby expanding the range of programs at lower levels. Most programs possibly represent clinically oriented education primarily specialising in addictions, and graduate programs in addictions for professionals with other disciplinary bases. Great emphasis is given to the quality standards of education, and also to relationship between education and labour market. Findings help opening opportunities to collaborate globally.
Electoral Incentives and Negotiated Settlements: Legislative Deliberation on the Mindanao Conflict in the Philippines
Authors: Watanabe Aya
Published: November 2024

Some conflict‐experiencing countries undergo both violent and electoral competitions. In other words, electoral competition evolves while nonstate actors struggle to realize their political and cultural demands by arms. Although increasing attention has been paid to the interplay between domestic political dynamics and violent conflict, we still know little about how the electoral calculations of legislators shape their response to negotiated settlement, possibly influencing conflict processes. By examining the congressional records of the House of Representatives in the Philippines, this study conducts quantitative text analyses to assess the impacts of electoral incentives—shaped by executive popularity, district ethnic composition, and the occurrence of conflict‐related violence—on legislators' response to negotiated settlement. The results demonstrate that legislators are sensitive to constituents' views on conflict settlement by showing support or opposition to negotiated settlement, anticipating their electoral fortunes in the next election.
A New Approach for Analyzing Root Development in Autogenous Tooth Transplants Using Computed Tomography
Authors: Beltrame Ludimila Saiter Assis , Bronzato Juliana Delatorre , Almeida Tereza Jacy da Silva , Intra João Batista Gagno , de Britto Cleber Freitas , Frozoni Marcos
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The aim of this study was to evaluate root development in autotransplanted teeth using cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) images.

Methods

Twelve premolars with incomplete root formation, which were selected to replace prematurely lost upper central incisors, were analyzed by CBCT on two different occasions. The first CBCT examination (T1) was conducted before tooth autotransplantation. The second CBCT examination (T2) was performed over a follow‐up period of at least 12 months and < 5 years. Three previously calibrated evaluators assessed root development. The positions of the tomographic planes were standardized. The mean root length in sagittal and coronal tomographic sections was used to validate the root length at T1 and T2. Longitudinal root development of the transplanted tooth was determined by calculating the difference in root length between T2 and T1. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), paired t‐test, and Pearson test were applied, with significance set at 5%.

Results

The mean time elapsed between T1 and T2 was 962 days/2.6 years. The ICC was > 0.75. The measurements obtained at T2 were significantly greater than at T1 (p = 0.001). The mean increase in root length was 2.83 mm. There was no significant correlation (p = 0.413; r = 0.261) between root length increase and the time elapsed between T1 and T2.

Conclusion

Premolar teeth with incompletely formed roots transplanted to the upper central incisor region showed continued root development during postoperative follow‐up.
Daratumumab in the Management of Red Cell Aplasia Following Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Desai Nihar , Viswabandya Auro , Kim Dennis Dong Hwan , Lipton Jeffrey H. , Mattsson Jonas , Law Arjun Datt
Published: November 2024

Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) is a rare but significant complication following major ABO‐incompatible allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The persistence of recipient B lymphocytes producing anti‐donor isohemagglutinins leads to reticulocytopenia and anemia, often resulting in transfusion dependence. Current treatment options for post‐HSCT PRCA are limited and frequently yield suboptimal responses, complicating patient management. Herein, we report three cases of post‐HSCT PRCA successfully managed with daratumumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting CD38‐expressing plasma cells. All patients demonstrated rapid reticulocyte recovery and transfusion independence after daratumumab treatment, despite prior treatment failures. These findings suggest that daratumumab may provide a more effective therapeutic approach, with a favorable safety profile compared to traditional therapies. Given its demonstrated efficacy and safety, daratumumab warrants consideration as a first‐line treatment for post‐HSCT PRCA, potentially improving patient quality of life and reducing transfusion‐related complications. Further studies should explore optimal dosing and long‐term outcomes.
Latent cognitive phenotypes in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy: Clinical, sociodemographic, and neuroimaging associations
Authors: Struck Aaron F. , Garcia‐Ramos Camille , Prabhakaran Vivek , Nair Veena , Adluru Nagesh , Adluru Anusha , Almane Dace , Jones Jana E. , Hermann Bruce P.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Application of cluster analytic procedures has advanced understanding of the cognitive heterogeneity inherent in diverse epilepsy syndromes and the associated clinical and neuroimaging features. Application of this unsupervised machine learning approach to the neuropsychological performance of persons with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) has yet to be attempted, which is the intent of this investigation.

Methods

A total of 77 JME participants, 19 unaffected siblings, and 44 unrelated controls, 12 to 25 years of age, were administered a comprehensive neuropsychological battery (intelligence, language, memory, executive function, and processing speed), which was subjected to factor analysis followed by K‐means clustering of the resultant factor scores. Identified cognitive phenotypes were characterized and related to clinical, family, sociodemographic, and cortical and subcortical imaging features.

Results

Factor analysis revealed three underlying cognitive dimensions (general ability, speed/response inhibition, and learning/memory), with JME participants performing worse than unrelated controls across all factor scores, and unaffected siblings performing worse than unrelated controls on the general mental ability and learning/memory factors, with no JME vs sibling differences. K‐means clustering of the factor scores revealed three latent groups including above average (31.4% of participants), average (52.1%), and abnormal performance (16.4%). Participant groups differed in their distributions across the latent groups (p < 0.001), with 23% JME, 22% siblings, and 2% unrelated controls in the abnormal performance group; and 18% JME, 21% siblings, and 59% unrelated controls in the above average group. Clinical epilepsy variables were unassociated with cluster membership, whereas family factors (lower parental education) and abnormally increased thickness and/or volume in the frontal, parietal, and temporal‐occipital regions were associated with the abnormal cognition group.

Significance

Distinct cognitive phenotypes characterize the spectrum of neuropsychological performance of patients with JME for which there is familial (sibling) aggregation. Phenotypic membership was associated with parental (education) and imaging characteristics (increased cortical thickness and volume) but not basic clinical seizure features.
Adaptive Significance of Long Mating With Repeated Intromissions in Zygogramma bicolorata
Authors: Pal Rabi Sankar , Bhowmick Anirban , Naik Kunmun , Nandy Bodhisatta
Published: November 2024

Long matings are abundant in insects despite the range of the costs involved. The causes and consequences of the evolution of long mating remain an interesting problem for behavioural ecologists. We studied extraordinarily long mating that involves repeated intromissions interspersed with latent periods in the Parthenium beetle (Zygogramma bicolorata). We conducted a series of interrupted mating assays to examine the fitness consequences of different components of this curious mating behaviour. We tested multiple adaptive hypotheses concerning male fertility and competitive ability. We found that sperm transfer and fertility did not exhibit a linear increase with the number of intromissions. There was also no evidence of nutrient transfer by the males. Interestingly, our results showed that both sexes suffered a significant cost of long mating. Further, female remating behaviour was found to be modulated by the length of the previous mating. Additionally, males were observed performing a curious leg rubbing behaviour during the inter‐intromission latent period, putatively serving as a copulatory courtship function that reduced female resistance to the continuance of mating. Therefore, we show that while the long mating may still serve a mate‐guarding role, there are additional fitness effects of such behaviour that need careful consideration. Our study provides insights into the adaptive significance of long mating and its fitness consequences.
Exploring the multifaceted impact of breast cancer on the body image
Authors: Davis Amelia , Acevedo Genevieve , Crowley‐Miller Alyssa , Tran Angel , Shah Malay , Langlais Mickey , Sturdivant Rodney , Elkins Gary , Yoo Jeong‐Ju
Published: November 2024

The goal of the study is to describe variables contributing to body image concerns among breast cancer survivors to foster positive body image. Participants for this qualitative study were recruited through convenience sampling (N = 10). The participants' ages ranged from 48 to 80, with an average of 64 years old. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Four themes concerned with body image were age at diagnosis, intimate partnership, preparedness for physical changes, and mental fluidity. Results from this study were used to develop strategies that can be adopted to improve the body image of cancer patients and survivors.
The Feasibility of a Claw‐Only Fishery for the Red Rock Crab, Cancer productus
Authors: McGaw Iain J. , Curtis Daniel L. , Van Leeuwen Travis E. , Schneider Eric V. C.
Published: November 2024

The red rock crab, Cancer productus, is primarily harvested by a recreational fishery, with a small commercial harvest in California. Although relatively large, meat yields are low because the legs are small, and meat is largely confined to the claws. We investigated the potential for a claw‐only harvest for this species. Although hand removal is used in the stone crab fishery, it caused > 90% post‐harvest mortality in red rock crabs. Inducing autotomy by inserting a spike into the arthrodial membranes or by cutting into the autotomy plane resulted in a high post‐harvest survival. We recommend a minimum harvest size of 35 mm claw height to produce a claw size similar to medium‐sized stone crabs and standard‐sized brown and Jonah crabs and to ensure that severed claws are unlikely to have come from female crabs, which is important for regions that mandate a male‐only harvest.