bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the role of acetylation in Giardia lamblia and the giardicidal potential of garcinol
Authors: Patolsky Rocío G. , Laiolo Jerónimo , Díaz-Pérez Luciano , Luna Pizarro Gabriel , Mayol Gonzalo F. , Touz María C. , Feliziani Constanza , Rópolo Andrea S.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Post-translational modifications of proteins provide cellular physiology with a broad range of adaptability to the external environment flexibly and rapidly. In the case of the protozoan parasite Giardia lamblia, the study of these modifications has gained relevance in recent years, mainly focusing on methylation and deacetylation of proteins. This study investigates the significance of acetylation in this protozoan parasite.

Methods

This study explores the role of acetylation in G. lamblia through a combination of immunofluorescence assays, manipulation of acetyltransferase enzymes, and the use of garcinol, an acetylation inhibitor, during the growth phase.

Results

The acetylation of histone marks H3K9 and H3K27 occurs during growth and is followed by deacetylation during encystation. Transfections modifying acetyltransferase activity induced a latent cellular state, underscoring the importance of protein acetylation for parasite survival. Garcinol treatment during growth caused significant morphological changes, including plasma membrane blebbing and apoptotic-like bodies. Immunofluorescence revealed these bodies contained α-tubulin/acetylated α-tubulin and reactive oxygen species. Flow cytometry and Annexin V staining indicated early apoptosis within 24 hours of treatment. Additionally, garcinol led to the deacetylation of H3K9 and H3K27, with redistribution of tubulin and acetylated tubulin from microtubules to the cytosol. Significantly, garcinol prevented parasite recrudescence after treatment withdrawal.

Discussion

These results demonstrate that acetylation is essential for trophozoite survival and highlight the natural histone acetyltransferase inhibitor garcinol as a potential candidate for drug development against giardiasis, considering its giardicidal activity.
Attitudes toward healthy nutrition in Germany — results from an online-representative cross-sectional survey
Authors: Hanslian Etienne , Schiele Julia Katharina , Jeitler Michael , Michalsen Andreas , Wischnewsky Manfred , Storz Maximilian Andreas , Brinkhaus Benno , Ortiz Miriam , Sigl Mike R. , Hoffmann Rasmus , Lehmann Judith , Koppold Daniela A. , Keßler Christian S.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Nutrition plays a crucial role in current German public health strategies. While sociodemographic differences in nutrition have been extensively studied, recent data specific to Germany remains limited.

Methods

An online-representative cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2022 among German-speaking adults aged 18–75 using a Computer Assisted Web Interview (CAWI) format. The survey addressed personal eating habits, the importance of nutrition, motivations behind food choices, and openness to dietary changes. Data analysis included both descriptive and inferential statistics, incorporating CHAID decision tree analysis and nonparametric methods for inductive statistical evaluation.

Results

Among the 4,065 participants, 62.3% regarded healthy nutrition as important, with women, individuals with higher education, and those aged under 26 or over 70 demonstrating greater emphasis on nutrition. CHAID analysis identified education as the most significant predictor of attitudes toward healthy nutrition, followed by sex and income. Participants with a positive attitude toward healthy nutrition reported higher HRQoL scores (EQ-Index = 0.862) compared to neutral or negative attitudes (EQ-Index = 0.835)0.10.5% of participants reported not to eat meat, 28.6% were self-reported flexitarians and 54.1% of participants considered themselves omnivorous. Gender-specific dietary preferences were observed, with plant-based diets being much more popular among females. Participants identified taste preference as the primary factor influencing food choices (77.2%) when asked about the main reasons for their eating habits. Approximately 18% of participants predominantly or exclusively bought organic foods. Interestingly, one third of participants indicated a willingness to adopt a more plant-based diet if recommended by physicians or scientists.

Conclusion

This online representative survey revealed significant associations between nutrition and sociodemographic aspects. Understanding this complex interplay might be useful for public health nutrition strategies that promote healthier national eating patterns.
Exogenous ALA applied on different plant parts promotes tomato fruit quality and GABA synthesis
Authors: Bai Peng , Wang Junwen , He Yongmei , Feng Junfang , Li Juanli , Shang Xingpan , Wu Yue , Yu Jihua , Tang Zhongqi , Xie Jianming
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Tomato fruit are rich in γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which lowers blood pressure and improves sleep. An increase in GABA content is important for enhancing the nutritional quality of tomato fruit.

Methods

To investigate the effects of 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) on fruit quality and GABA synthesis in greenhouse tomatoes, the tomato cultivar (Solanum lycopersicum cv. ‘184’) was used as an experimental material. During the fruit-setting period, root drenching with 0, 10, and 50 mg·L−1 ALA, foliar spraying with 0, 50, and 100 mg·L−1 ALA, and fruit surface spraying with 0, 100, and 200 mg·L−1 ALA were applied. The study investigated the application of exogenous ALA to different parts of the plant to determine the optimal ALA concentrations for each application site (10 mg·L−1 for root application, 100 mg·L−1 for foliar application, and 100 mg·L−1 for fruit surface application). Using the selected optimal ALA concentrations, tomatoes were used to study the effects of exogenous ALA application at different sites on fruit quality and GABA synthesis of greenhouse tomatoes.

Results and discussion

The results demonstrated that exogenous ALA application to different parts of greenhouse-grown tomato plants substantially increased single-fruit weight by 42.37%–76.24%, soluble sugar content by 78.51%–94.52%, soluble solids by 9.09%–41.71%, soluble protein by 82.71%–241.05%, and ascorbic acid content by 1.31%–5.06% in mature tomatoes. And it reduced the organic acid content of the fruit by 12.81%–33.61%. Moreover, ALA applied at different parts of plants substantially enhanced the free amino acid content by 11.22%–16.50%, among them, umami amino acid content by 7.26%–20.13%. Besides, GABA content in mature tomato fruits was increased by 214.58%–433.32 across the different application parts. Exogenous ALA application at different sites regulates the activity of glutamate acid decarboxylase (GAD) and increases the content of glutamate for GABA synthesis pathway during tomato fruit development, thereby affecting the GABA content. In summary, exogenous ALA applied at different parts of tomato plants regulates the metabolism of amino acids and enhances the biosynthesis of GABA, which promotes the nutrient quality of the fruit.
Research hotspots and trends in lung cancer STAS: a bibliometric and visualization analysis
Authors: Peng Xiuhua , Bian Hupo , Zhao Hongxing , Jia Dan , Li Mei , Li Wenhui , Xu Pengliang
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study employed the R software bibliometrix and the visualization tools CiteSpace and VOSviewer to conduct a bibliometric analysis of literature on lung cancer spread through air spaces (STAS) published since 2015.

Methods

On September 1, 2024, a computer-based search was performed in the Web of Science (WOS) Core Collection dataset for literature on lung cancer STAS published between January 1, 2015, and August 31, 2024. VOSviewer was used to visually analyze countries, institutions, authors, co-cited authors, and keywords, while CiteSpace was utilized to analyze institutional centrality, references, keyword bursts, and co-citation literature. Descriptive analysis tables were created using Excel 2021.

Results

A total of 243 articles were included from the WOS, with a significant increase in annual publications observed since 2018. China, Kadota K, and Fudan University were leading countries, authors, and institutions by publication volume. The top three authors by co-citation count were Kadota K, Chen C, and Adusumilli PS. The journal with the highest publication volume was Lung Cancer, with the most influential journal among the top 10 being the Journal of Thoracic Oncology. The most frequently cited reference was “Lobectomy Is Associated with Better Outcomes than Sublobar Resection in Spread through Air Spaces (STAS)-Positive T1 Lung Adenocarcinoma: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis.” Keyword clustering categorized the research into four main areas: pathological studies of lung cancer STAS, biological mechanisms, prognostic assessment, and imaging analysis. Current research hotspots include deep learning, lung squamous cell carcinoma, and air spaces STAS.

Conclusion

The current research on lung cancer STAS primarily focuses on pathological studies, biological mechanisms, prognostic assessments, and preoperative imaging model predictions. This study’s findings provide new insights and directions for future research in this area.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/#myprospero, identifier 589442.
Purple corn extract improves benign prostatic hyperplasia by inhibiting 5 alpha-reductase type 2 and inflammation in testosterone propionate-induced rats
Authors: Kim Sung-Ok , Choi Arin , Lee Hee-Hwan , Lee Jae-Yong , Park Sang Jae , Kim Byung-Hak
Published: January 2025

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a health issue caused by an enlarged prostate in older men. Its prevalence increases with age, and it results in urination-related problems. This works studied the effect of purple corn extract (PCE) on improving BPH symptoms using a testosterone propionate (TP)-induced rat model. PCE reduced the enlargement and weight of the prostate through the inhibition of the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by inhibiting 5α-reductase type 2 (Srd5a2) in TP-induced BPH rats. In these rats, PCE decreased androgen receptor (AR) expression, AR-mediated signaling, and cell proliferation and increased apoptotic cell death. Finally, PCE exhibited anti-inflammatory activity through the regulation of the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2) axis. These results indicate that the Srd5a2 inhibition and anti-inflammatory activity are some of the beneficial effects of PCE that improve BPH symptoms.
The clinical features and risk factors of coagulopathy associated with cefoperazone/sulbactam: a nomogram prediction model
Authors: Xu Changjing , Zhu Junlong , Tu Kun , Tang Hui , Zhou Xinxin , Li Qiuyu , Chen Kun , Yang Xuping , Huang Yilan
Published: January 2025

Background

Cefoperazone/sulbactam (CPZ/SAM) is an important treatment option for infections caused by multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria. However, it is associated with an increased risk of coagulation disorders (CD) and causes severe bleeding in some instances. Early identification of risk factors and prediction of CD related to CPZ/SAM are crucial for prevention and treatment. This study aimed to explore the risk factors and developed a nomogram model for predicting the risk of coagulopathy in patients undergoing CPZ/SAM treatment.

Methods

A total of 1719 patients who underwent CPZ/SAM in the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University from August 2018 to August 2022, were recruited as the training cohort. For validation, 1,059 patients treated with CPZ/SAM from September 2022 to August 2024 were enrolled. Patients were divided into the CD and the N-CD groups. The occurrence of CD was designated as the dependent variable. The univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors of CD. A nomogram model was constructed from the multivariate logistic regression analysis and internally validated for model discrimination and calibration. The performance of the nomogram was estimated using the concordance index (C-index) and calibration curve.

Results

The multivariate logistic regression analysis resulted in the following independent risk factors for CD: baseline INR level (OR: 5.768, 95% CI: 0.484∼11.372, p = 0.036), nutritional risk (OR:2.711, 95%CI: 1.495∼4.125, p < 0.001), comorbidity of digestive system (OR:1.287, 95%CI: 0.434∼2.215, p = 0.004), poor food intake (OR:1.261, 95%CI: 0.145∼2.473, p = 0.032), ALB level (OR: −0.132, 95%CI: −0.229∼-0.044, p = 0.005) and GFR< 30 mL/min (OR: 1.925, 95%CI: 0.704∼3.337, p = 0.004). The internal validation confirmed the model’s good performance (C-index, 0.905 [95% CI: 0.864∼0.945]). The calibration plots in the nomogram model were of high quality. Validation further confirmed the reliability of the nomogram, with a C-index of 0.886 (95% CI: 0.832–0.940).

Conclusion

The nomogram model facilitated accurate prediction of CD in patients undergoing CPZ/SAM. And this could potentially contribute to reducing the incidence of CPZ/SAM-associated CD and consequently improving patients’ outcomes.
Evaluating the pharmacokinetics and safety of blonanserin tablets and Lonasen®: a randomized, open-label, two-period, two-sequence, self-crossover phase I clinical trial
Authors: Qiu Bo , Song Haojing , Sun Xue , Ding Congyang , Du Runxuan , Bai Wanjun , Dong Zhanjun
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study evaluated the pharmacokinetic and safety profiles of generic and original blonanserin tablets under fasting and postprandial conditions, and the bioequivalence of two formulations to obtain sufficient evidence for abbreviated new drug application.

Methods

A randomized, open-label, two-period, two-sequence, self-crossover bioequivalence study was conducted to assess the bioequivalence of the test and reference blonanserin tablets under fasting and postprandial conditions. Eligible healthy individuals received a single 4-mg dose of either the test or reference blonanserin tablet, followed by a wash out period of 14 days. Serial blood samples were collected for up to 72 h after administration during each period, and the plasma concentrations of blonanserin were determined using a validated method. The non-compartmental method was used to calculate the primary pharmacokinetic parameters, and the geometric mean ratios for the PK parameters of the test drug to those of the reference drug, along with the corresponding 90% confidence intervals, were obtained for bioequivalence analysis. Throughout the study, a safety evaluation was conducted.

Results

Under both fasting and postprandial conditions, the pharmacokinetic parameters of the test drug were found to be similar to those of the reference drug. The 90% confidence intervals (CIs) of the geometric mean ratios of the test to reference formulations were 97.79%–118.28% for peak concentration (Cmax), 92.35%–111.78% for the area under the curve from zero to the last measurable concentration (AUC0-t) and 92.88%–111.91% for the AUC from zero to observed infinity (AUC0-∞) under fasting conditions, 88.65%–103.20% for Cmax, 95.89%–106.81% for AUC0-t and 96.02%–106.91% for AUC0-∞ under postprandial conditions, all of which were within the accepted bioequivalence range of 80.00%–125.00%. Both the test and reference formulations were well-tolerated, and no serious adverse events related to the study drug were reported during the study.

Conclusion

The bioequivalence of blonanserin tablets, both test and reference, was confirmed in healthy Chinese subjects under fasting and postprandial conditions, meeting the predetermined regulatory criteria for both formulations. Both formulations were found to be safe and well tolerated.

Clinical Trial Registration

http://www.chinadrugtrials.org.cn/index.html, identifier CTR20230703.
Managing novel therapies and concomitant medications in chronic lymphocytic leukemia: key challenges
Authors: Kozarac Sofija , Ivanovic Jelena , Mitrovic Marko , Tomic Vujovic Kristina , Arsenovic Isidora , Suvajdzic-Vukovic Nada , Bogdanovic Andrija , Vidovic Ana , Todorovic-Balint Milena , Bila Jelena , Mitrovic Mirjana , Lekovic Danijela , Djunic Irena , Virijevic Marijana , Trivic Aleksandar , Micic Jelena , Antic Darko
Published: January 2025

The treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) consists of the continuous use of Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors (BTKis) such as ibrutinib, acalabrutinib, zanubrutinib and pirtobrutinib, or Bcl-2 inhibitors, such as venetoclax. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) of CLL patients are significantly improved with the use of these therapies. Adverse effects (AEs) that can occur during treatment and the presence of pre-existing comorbidities in patients can influence subsequent treatment outcomes and, consequently, OS and PFS. Managing these AEs, including cardiologic toxicity and infections (including fungal infections), as well as treating cardiovascular and other comorbidities, can be challenging due to potential drug interactions with the medications used for the management of AEs and comorbidities. Therefore, this review examined the key challenges associated with the concomitant use of novel CLL therapies and medications for managing comorbidities and AEs. This review aims to enhance and facilitate the management of patients with CLL.
Autonomous learning and creative cognition: the mediating effect of gifted students’ self-efficacy
Authors: Orakcı Şenol
Published: January 2025

Introduction

In today’s world, it is of great importance to raise qualified learners whose creative thinking skills and self-efficacy are developed and who can make various choices and take responsibility for their choices as well as implementing them by making their own decisions. In this regard, the study examined the role of gifted students’ self-efficacy (SE) as a mediator on the relationship between autonomous learning (AL) and creative cognition (CC).

Methods

A proposed conceptual model was tested using a cross-sectional survey design. Based on “convenience sampling,” the study group consisted of 528 gifted secondary school students enrolled in three Science and Arts Centers in Ankara, Türkiye in the 2022–2023 academic year. A two-step Structural equation modelling (SEM) analysis was conducted for data analysis.

Results and discussion

The findings revealed that AL positively and significantly predicted CC, SE was positively correlated with CC, and both dimensions of AL (Independence of Learning- IoL and Study habits- SH) had a significant direct and indirect influence on CC via SE, confirming that the dimensions of AL (IoL and SH) had distinct indirect influences on CC via SE. The study improves our understanding of the role that SE beliefs play in the interaction between AL and CC, which helps to expand and improve models that represent these processes. In order to create conditions that encourage AL, foster SE beliefs, and eventually improve CC among gifted students, educators, policymakers, and parents can create a learning environment that not only promotes AL and strong SH but also fosters SE and CC, ultimately leading to more innovative and self-reliant students.
Workaholism, work engagement, and affective commitment: relationships to self-concept levels and work outcomes
Authors: Afota Marie-Colombe , Robert Véronique , Vandenberghe Christian
Published: January 2025

As a result of the significant changes in businesses around the globe such as the generalization of remote working and digital transformation, the boundaries between work and private life tend to vanish, causing concerns about whether individuals’ investment in their work could have detrimental effects on their life and health. In such context, the notion of heavy work investment, an umbrella construct that subsumes different forms of investment of the self into the work domain, warrants scholarly attention as it may have both a bright and dark side for individuals. The present study focuses on three forms of heavy work investment, i.e., workaholism, work engagement, and affective organizational commitment, and was aimed at examining their association with three levels of the self-concept, i.e., individual, relational, and collective, as well as their contribution to change in number of hours worked, role overload, depression, and emotional exhaustion over time. We conducted a three-wave study with a four-month time separation between measurements among a sample of alumni from a French business school (N = 544) to explore these relationships. Results indicated that as expected, workaholism was positively associated with the individual self-concept, reflecting a tendency to prioritize individual achievements and success, but was also related to a stronger collective self-concept, which involves a self-definition based on group membership. Work engagement and affective organizational commitment were positively and only related to the collective self-concept. In terms of work outcomes, workaholism, but not work engagement and affective commitment, was found to increase the number of hours employees worked across time as well as to heighten their perception of being overloaded by their work. Workaholism was also associated with a significant increase in the odds of depression over time. In contrast, work engagement was found to protect employees from the risk of depression and emotional exhaustion over time. Affective commitment was unrelated to change in any of the four work outcomes. These findings have significant implications for research on heavy work investment and for our understanding of its nature and consequences for employees, which we elaborate on in the discussion.
The impact of industrial synergistic agglomeration on residents’ health levels
Authors: Qi Di , Xu Wenhan
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study investigates the impact of industrial synergistic agglomeration on residents’ health levels in China. It explores how green and traditional industry agglomeration models influence residents’ health levels outcomes and identifies the underlying mechanisms driving these effects.

Methods

Using panel data from 283 prefecture-level cities and above in China from 2003 to 2020, the study applies the Generalized Spatial Two-Stage Least Squares (GS2SLS) method. This approach allows for a systematic analysis of both direct and spatial spillover effects, focusing on the comparative impacts of green and traditional industrial agglomeration models.

Results

(i) Spatial Effects: Residents’ health levels exhibits a significant positive spatial effect, with public health improvements in one city positively influencing neighboring cities.

(ii) Industrial Agglomeration: Industrial synergistic agglomeration has a stronger positive impact on residents’ health levels compared to single-industry agglomeration.

(iii) Mechanisms: The effect of industrial synergistic agglomeration on residents’ health levels operates through three primary mechanisms:

- Population Agglomeration Effects: Enhanced population clustering contributes to better public health services.

- Media Dissemination Effects: Improved information dissemination raises public health awareness.

- Income Growth Effects: Increased income levels drive better access to healthcare and lifestyle improvements.

(iv) Model Comparison: Green industry synergistic agglomeration proves more beneficial for residents’ health levels improvement than traditional industry agglomeration.

Discussion

The findings highlight the critical role of industrial synergistic agglomeration, particularly in green industries, in promoting residents’ health levels. Policymakers are encouraged to prioritize strategies fostering green industry clustering and to leverage the identified mechanisms to amplify public health benefits across regions.
Buffering or not working: group counseling for depression and loneliness among boarding primary school students
Authors: Wang Peng , Ma Junchi , Du Longlong , Xing Qiulian , Cheng Xinyu , Zhang Mingzhu , Geng Fei , Zheng Yuanxin , Zheng Fangxiao , Tian Mei
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Due to the acceleration of modern life rhythm, students with developing minds are susceptible to negative external influences, leading to a growing concern for their mental health. Boarding primary school students have limited interaction with relatives compared to their non-boarding counterparts, rendering them more prone to feelings of depression and loneliness, resulting in various negative emotions. Therefore, our study aimed to explore the effects of group counseling interventions on reducing depression and loneliness among adolescents.

Methods

The study analyzed loneliness and depression before and after the intervention in eight randomly selected classes of fifth-grade students at a boarding school in a region of Shandong Province, which were divided into an experimental group and a control group.

Results

Within the experimental group, there were no substantial variations in loneliness and depression levels. In the control group, post-test depression results significantly surpassed pre-test scores (p = 0.046), though loneliness levels did not differ significantly. Conversely, the experimental group displayed significantly reduced post-test depression levels compared to the control group (p = 0.037), with no significant variance in loneliness.

Conclusion

The findings indicated that group psychological counseling mitigates depression in the experimental group to a certain extent, affirming the efficacy of the intervention. The study demonstrated that group counseling alleviates depression in boarding students, emphasizing the value of the intervention.
Protein carbamylation and proteomics: from artifacts to elucidation of biological functions
Authors: You Youngki , Many Gina , Nakayasu Ernesto S.
Published: January 2025

Lysine carbamylation is a non-enzymatic protein post-translational modification (PTM) that plays important roles in regulating enzymatic activity and the pathogenesis of diseases such as atherosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and uremia. The progress of understanding the roles of carbamylation in biological systems has been delayed due to lack of systematic assays to study its functions. To aggravate this scenario, carbamylation is a major artifact in proteomics analysis given that urea, which is used during sample preparation, induces carbamylation. In addition, anti-acetyllysine antibodies co-purify carbamylated and acetylated peptides. In a recent paper, we leveraged co-purification with anti-acetyllysine antibodies to develop a method for analyzing carbamylated proteomes. In this perspective article, we discuss how this method may be applied to characterize the physiological functions of carbamylation in humans and other biological models, as well as the utility of establishing novel disease biomarkers.
Examining the prevention approach in National Dementia Plans from European and North American countries
Authors: Andreoletti Mattia , Blasimme Alessandro
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of National Dementia Plans (NDPs) from selected European and North American countries, focusing on the distinct prevention strategies outlined and the approaches employed for reducing dementia risk.

Method

The sample consisted of 16 NDPs from Austria, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, the UK, and the USA. These NDPs were retrieved from the Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) database, with regular updates checked on official governmental websites. A qualitative analysis was conducted to identify common themes related to the vision, goals, and corresponding actions and measures within these strategies.

Results

Our analysis revealed that dementia prevention is a strategic goal for most of the countries studied. Common actions identified include the identification of risk factors, advancing research, promoting healthy aging, increasing public awareness, and encouraging lifestyle interventions.

Conclusion

We discuss the limitations and challenges of these actions, and more broadly, of the NDPs in relation to the recent literature on the most effective approaches to preventing dementia. We suggest adopting a more “horizontal” approach to dementia prevention, which current NDPs overlook in favor of “vertical” paradigms.
From construction machines to remote construction robots: control, interfaces, and usability of the Cranebot
Authors: Duz Alessandra , Negrello Francesca , Rucodainii Alexandr , Lanzoni Daniel , Corsanici Mario , Iapichino Angelo , Vitali Andrea , Regazzoni Daniele , Birolini Valentino , Signori Roberto , Ceresoli Rossano , Grioli Giorgio , Bicchi Antonio , Catalano Manuel G.
Published: January 2025

Construction machines, for example cranes, excavators, or bulldozers, are widely diffused systems operating outdoors in harsh and dangerous environments, such as building sites, forests, and mines. Typically, construction machines require the on-site presence of highly skilled users to manage the complexity of their control and the high power of hydraulic actuation. Construction machines could benefit from recent developments of robot avatar technology that has demonstrated the viability of remotizing human physical activities, leveraging on intuitive interfaces and controls. Similar approaches could also improve the overall usability of construction machines, making them safer and accessible for untrained users. With this in mind, we developed a novel system for the remote control of cranes through intuitive and immersive interfaces. To validate the solution, we evaluated the experience of approximately 80 untrained users that remotely operated a crane during the 33rd Edition of Bauma, the world’s leading fair for construction machines.
Parental “Superpowers”: How Caregiving Can Shape Kids’ DNA
Authors: Provenzi Livio , De Santis Camilla , Capelli Elena
Published: January 2025

Every day, parents take care of children and by doing so they promote their children’s emotional wellbeing and the way their brains work. Are you curious about how such parenting “superpowers” work? It turns out that tiny chemical tags on people’s DNA, known as epigenetic markers, play a big role. These markers act like switches, turning genes on or off, and they can be influenced by people’s experiences. In this article, we focus on the effects of parents’ nurturing behavior on kids’ epigenetic markers, which can pass messages from the environment (the parenting kids receive) to kids’ genes, influencing gene function. Understanding how these markers work can help people understand why they feel certain emotions and behave in specific ways. Through this article, we aim to inspire curiosity and understanding in young minds about the fascinating interplay between experiences, genes, and emotions.
Internet use and social trust: empirical analysis based on CGSS2021
Authors: Miao Juan , Kuang Junfeng , Yang Linlin , Chen Ming , Tian Xueqing
Published: January 2025

The development of the Internet has significantly changed the way people live and interact with each other. Interaction is the foundation for building trust and may therefore also be influenced by the Internet. This study aims to examine the impact of Internet use on different dimensions of social trust, focusing on the roles of perceived fairness and social support, using the latest data from the CGSS from China. The results show that Internet use has a significant negative predictive effect on the level of social trust, and the perception of social fairness plays a fully mediating role in this relationship. That is, Internet use can indirectly reduce people’s level of social trust by reducing their perception of social fairness. Furthermore, the results indicate that social support can moderate people’s perceptions of social fairness and thus mitigate the negative effects of Internet use on social trust. These results suggest that we should raise the profile of the impact of internet use, actively improve people’s perceptions of social fairness to increase their level of social trust, and finally, focus on the positive role of social support, which can reduce the negative impact of internet use.
Metabolite profiling of some organs and the potential of Mukia javanica as an antihypertension
Authors: Pratami Mentari Putri , Sujarwo Wawan , Fendiyanto Miftahul Huda , Yuniati Ratna , Kurniyanto Ifan Rizky , Widiayani Nuniek , Seleiman Mahmoud F. , Ali Nawab , Anshori Muhammad Fuad
Published: January 2025

Mukia javanica is a close relative of the cucumber (Cucumis sativus) used to treat hypertension in the Leuwiliang community. Cucumis sativus contains calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus, which help lower blood pressure. In contrast, the content of metabolite compounds that are useful for lowering blood pressure in M. javanica has not been previously reported. Therefore, this research aimed to identify and determine the secondary metabolite content contained in several M. javanica organs and determine potential compounds that function in treating hypertension. The method used is the gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GCMS) method. The samples analyzed included several organs of M. javanica, such as roots, stems, leaves, and fruit. Several organs are tested to determine the part of the plant with the most potential secondary metabolite compound content. Data analysis used the R version 3.5.2 program and the Metaboanalyst program. Based on the test results, 98 secondary metabolite compounds were identified and divided into several compound classes, and the most significant number of compounds identified was the terpenoid compound group. The 13-Tetradecen-1-acetate (root), Oleic acid (fruit), Phytol (stem), and 4-hydroxy-3-nitrocoumarin (root) content in Mukia javanica has the potential to be antihypertensive. Based on correlation analysis, the metabolites Hexadecanoic Acid Methyl Ester, Squalene, Vitamin E, and Stigmasta-7,16-Dien-3 show high correlation values. The compound Hexadecanoic Acid Methyl Ester is found in all parts, and it is reported to be associated with antihypertension and antioxidants. In the future, this compound has the potential to be used as a raw material for antihypertensive drugs.
Investigating spatially varying relationships between the distribution of rural settlements and related influences
Authors: Yuan Chenzhao , Dong Guanglong , Liu Zheng
Published: January 2025

The distribution of rural settlements is a complex outcome of human adaptation to natural conditions and socioeconomic development throughout history. Scientifically revealing the spatially varying relationships between the distribution of rural settlements and the related factors is fundamental for effective planning and management. In this study, we focus on the North China Plain to analyze the spatially varying relationships between the distribution of rural settlements and the related factors using both traditional statistical and geographically weighted regression models. Our findings reveal that both the number and the area of rural settlements at the county level are increasing from north to south and from west to east. The results of the traditional regression model suggest that total area, total population, road density, precipitation, road length, slope, longitude, and temperature significantly influence the rural settlement area, while those influencing the number of rural settlements are longitude, latitude, road length, road density, river length, and river density. Moreover, the regression coefficients are constant in the global model, while both the magnitude and the sign of the corresponding parameters in the local model are spatially varying. However, the value of the coefficients in the global model are within the range of the coefficients in the local model and most coefficients in the local model share the same sign with that the global model. Our results also reveal that the local model outperforms the global model with the same explanatory variables, indicating a smaller Akaike’s information criterion (AIC) and a reduced Moran’s I in model residual. Finally, this study also highlights the importance of the cautious and scientific interpretation of the varying relationships, especially when the unexpected results are obtained.
Case report: Mucormycosis due to Rhizopus microsporus: an important reminder of opportunistic infections in immunocompromised acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Higuchi Misato , Nishimoto Katsutaro , Waseda Tomoka , Takenaka Motoi , Murota Hiroyuki
Published: January 2025

Hematologic malignancies, diabetes, and the development and widespread use of novel anticancer and immunosuppressive agents have introduced a new dimension of immunosuppression, raising concerns about emerging opportunistic infections. Here, we report a case of mucormycosis in a patient with therapy-related acute myeloid leukemia, encountered in our department. The patient presented with a necrotic lesion around the right eyelid. In this case, the condition and skin lesions rapidly progressed, and the patient passed away within a few days of the appearance of necrotic plaques. The causative organism was identified as Rhizopus microsporus. Mucormycosis is a severe invasive fungal infection that can rapidly worsen the prognosis of immunocompromised patients. Cutaneous mucormycosis is classified into primary and secondary forms. Based on the findings and the underlying disease, secondary cutaneous mucormycosis was suspected. Familiarity with the characteristic clinical features of mucormycosis may be the key factor in initiating timely treatment.
Socio-Economic Factors Influencing Intimate Partner Violence Among Adolescents and Young Women in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Scoping Review
Authors: Ikuteyijo Olutoyin Opeyemi , Zepro Nejimu , Akinyemi Akanni Ibukun , Probst-Hensch Nicole , Merten Sonja
Published: January 2025

Objective

To summarize the evidence on how socio-economic status and intimate partner violence (IPV) are interrelated among adolescents and young women (AYW) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).

Methods

Online databases such as MEDLINE, Embase, PsycIFO, CINAHL, Cochrane Central, Sociological Abstracts, Web of Science, and the African Index Medicus were used to identify studies published between 2015 and 2022. The reporting procedure was the Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) as a checklist extension for the scoping review.

Results

The majority of the publications, ten (62.5%) were cross-sectional studies, while four (25%) were qualitative studies and two (12.5%) were mixed methods studies. The review found that lack of financial resources exposed AYW to all forms of violence ranging from physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, and economic violence. Nonetheless, financial reliance on a partner poses a long-term threat to AYW employment and financial stability.

Conclusion

Socio-economic status influences the level of IPV experienced by AYW in many countries of SSA, while evidence of the long-term effects remains uncovered. To achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 1, which focuses on ending poverty in all forms by 2030, socio-economic inequalities caused by IPV among AYW require prompt interventions.
The Health and Health Insurance Implications of Climate Change in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Narrative Review
Authors: Traoré Ousmane , Tetka Jean Brice
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This paper aims to provide a narrative review of the implications of climate change on health and health insurance in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

A comprehensive research was employed to carry out a complete narrative study on the subject. Thus, since September 2022 we searched for literature on the relationships between climate change, health, and health insurance on PubMed over an unbounded period. By updating the research method, the outputs cover the period 2009–2024.

Results

Based on 19 key articles that focused on the implications of climate change for health and health insurance in sub-Saharan Africa, we highlight that climate change directly affects population health through climate-related disease. Indirectly, climate change affects health through its disruption of food availability and agriculture and through demographic shifts.

Conclusion

Finally, this narrative review suggests appropriate strategies to combat the health consequences of climate change and to improve universal health insurance systems.
Integrating Maternal and Child Health Into Climate Change: A Holistic Approach
Authors: Amekpor Felix , Sakariyau Waheed , Kengo Nathan Ezie , Sandra Nwodo Amarachukwu , Agyapong Joseph , Dauda Zakariya’u , Kwarteng Samuel , Adedokun David Adeoye , Darko Gideon
Published: January 2025

Objectives

In everyday language, climate change is an increase in the Earth’s average temperature. Climate change negatively affects life support systems, including air, food, water, shelter, and security, on which humans depend. This paper aims to holistically integrate maternal and child health into climate change.

Methods

A narrative/literature review approach were adopted using papers sources from google scholar, research gate and web of science. About 10 papers was initially gathered and it was later scrutinized to 6.

Results

It was discovered that, climate change negatively impacts food and water security, heat stress, extreme weather, and air pollution, with women and children most affected. The World Health Organization estimates 250,000 climate-related deaths annually by 2050, disproportionately affecting maternal and child health. Integrating climate and maternal health strategies could offer benefits, yet research on adapting to climate change’s effects on pregnancy outcomes is limited.

Conclusion

Addressing maternal and child health requires integrating health-focused strategies into environmental policies to reduce vulnerabilities to climate-related risks. A comprehensive approach can enhance resilience by improving healthcare access, education, and sustainable resource management, benefiting public health and environmental outcomes.
Examination of non-conventional dysplasias adjacent to colorectal adenocarcinoma in patients with IBD
Authors: Almási Szintia , Balajthy Zsófia , Baráth Bence , Török Zsófia Krisztina , Szaszák Panna , Lantos Tamás , Kővári Bence , Sejben Anita
Published: January 2025

Objective

Recently, several non-conventional variants of IBD-associated dysplasia have been described; however, their prevalence in Central-Eastern Europe is unknown. We aimed to perform a retrospective pilot study by re-evaluating several IBD-associated adenocarcinoma cases to survey the incidence of adjacent non-conventional dysplasia and validate that recent North American findings may apply to a European population.

Methods

Retrospectively, 28 randomly chosen cases of IBD-associated adenocarcinomas diagnosed between 2010 and 2022 were re-evaluated. The patient’s sex, age (at the diagnosis of IBD and neoplasia), type of IBD, type of specimen [biopsy (n = 8)/surgical specimen (n = 20)], histological type, grade, localisation, stage, disease-free (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were obtained. Statistical analyses were carried out by using Mann-Whitney (continuous variables), Fisher’s exact (categorical variables), Kaplan-Meier (DFS/OS curves), and logrank test (survival curves).

Results

Exclusively, conventional dysplasia was observed in 11, and non-conventional dysplasia in 8 patients. Combined conventional and non-conventional dysplasia was detected in 9 patients. Non-conventional dysplasia showing a combination of multiple subtypes was noted in 10 cases. Altogether, 25 non-conventional dysplastic foci were identified, which were diagnosed as hypermucinous (n = 9), goblet cell-deficient (n = 6), serrated not otherwise specified (NOS) (n = 6), and traditional serrated adenoma-like (n = 4). The majority of non-conventional dysplasias were associated with ulcerative colitis (n = 12). Mucinous adenocarcinoma was exclusively associated with non-conventional dysplasia, while medullary carcinoma was only with conventional dysplasias (p = 0.014 and 0.041).

Conclusion

Based on our results, non-conventional dysplasia is common (60%) adjacent to IBD-associated adenocarcinomas in a Central-Eastern European population and may be detected in biopsies. As multiple recent publications reported evidence of a worse prognosis and more common flat morphology compared to conventional dysplasias, their recognition is of great importance, and stricter follow-up with random biopsy samples may be considered.
Only IF/TA in the Histological Evaluation of Post-Reperfusion Baseline Biopsies Correlates With Kidney Transplant Outcome
Authors: Bachmann Quirin , Torrez Carlos , Büttner-Herold Maike , Haller Bernhard , Haberfellner Flora , Hausinger Renate , Assfalg Volker , Renders Lutz , Amann Kerstin , Heemann Uwe , Schmaderer Christoph , Kemmner Stephan
Published: January 2025

Here, we retrospectively evaluated the informational yield of 338 post-reperfusion kidney transplant biopsies (including 95 living donations) assessed according to BANFF for the histological characteristics interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (IF/TA), glomerulosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, and acute tubular injury (ATI). Associations with delayed graft function (DGF) and death-censored graft survival were explored through Cox-regression analyses. The maximum follow-up time was 11.4 years, with DGF observed in 108 (32%) cases. After deceased donation there was no association between DGF and histologic parameters. Univariable Cox-regression unveiled an association of IF/TA and glomerulosclerosis with long-term death-censored graft survival (HR per 10% increase: IF/TA 1.63; 95% CI 1.17–2.28; p = 0.003; glomerulosclerosis 1.19; 95% CI 1.01–1.39; p = 0.031). In multivariable Cox regression analyses, adjusted for recognized clinical risk variables like expanded criteria donor-status, donor age, history of diabetes, and HLA-mismatches, only IF/TA maintained association over the total observation period in deceased donations and in the total cohort. Arteriosclerosis and ATI were not associated with clinical outcome after deceased donation. Especially ATI did not affect delayed graft function if only deceased donations were considered. Our data underlines the role of organ quality for transplant outcome prior to acute lesions such as ATI during the transplantation process.
Optimal Dynamics Control in Trajectory Tracking of Industrial Robots Based on Adaptive Gaussian Pseudo-Spectral Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Jing , Zhu Xiaokai , Chen Te , Dou Guowei
Published: January 2025

A pseudo-spectral control algorithm based on adaptive Gauss collocation point reconstruction is proposed to efficiently solve the optimal dynamics control problem of industrial robots. A mathematical model for the kinematic relationship and dynamic optimization control of industrial robots has been established. On the basis of deriving the Legendre–Gauss collocation formula, a two-stage adaptive Gauss collocation strategy for industrial robot dynamics control variables was designed to improve the dynamics optimization control effect of industrial robot by improving the solution efficiency of constrained optimization problems. The results show that compared with the control variable parameterization method and the traditional Gaussian pseudo-spectral method, the proposed dynamic optimal control method based on an adaptive Gaussian point reconstruction algorithm can effectively improve the solving time and efficiency of constrained optimization problems, thereby further enhancing the dynamic optimization control and trajectory tracking effect of industrial robots.