bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Drillers and bulldozer operators have experienced exceptionally high exposures to respirable crystalline silica in US surface coal mines
Authors: Shao Yuan , Almberg Kirsten S , Friedman Lee S , Cohen Robert A , Go Leonard H T 
Published: December 2024

Introduction
Previous studies suggest respirable crystalline silica (RCS) is an important driver of resurgent pneumoconiosis among US coal miners. Although greater attention has been focused on dust exposures in underground coal miners, surface miners are also at risk of severe disease. This study explores RCS exposure in this population.

Methods
We analysed 91 950 respirable quartz samples from 4127 US surface coal mines from 1982 to 2023. We calculated the geometric mean of respirable quartz concentration for each mine-year combination. Then, for each calendar year, we averaged the geometric means across all mines. We used generalised estimating equation models with a natural logarithm link function and Poisson distribution to evaluate the marginal effects of mine characteristic variables on the mass concentration of respirable quartz based on individual dust sample results.

Results

Drillers and bulldozer operators had annual mean respirable quartz exposures as high as 0.58 and 0.32 mg/m3, respectively, while other occupations combined had exposure of 0.08 mg/m
3
. The mean mine-level respirable quartz mass concentrations decreased substantially over time for all three occupation groups. Drillers or bulldozer operators, mine location in Central Appalachia and lack of a mine safety committee were predictive of higher respirable quartz mass concentrations.

Conclusions
These data demonstrate exceptionally high RCS overexposures among certain groups of surface coal miners, particularly drillers and bulldozer operators in the 1980s and 1990s. Despite recent improvement in RCS levels, these data underscore the importance of continued medical surveillance of current and former surface coal miners.
Short-term effects of home-based pulmonary rehabilitation during outpatient-managed exacerbations of COPD: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Machado Ana , Dias Cíntia , Paixão Cátia , Gonçalves António Pedro , Burtin Chris , Marques Alda 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundUncertainty exists about the beneficial effects of delivering pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) during exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (ECOPD). This study explored the short-term effects and self-reported impact of a home-based PR programme for people with outpatient-managed ECOPD.MethodsWe conducted a mixed-methods randomised controlled trial in people with outpatient-managed ECOPD. Participants were randomly assigned to the control (CG, ie, usual care) or experimental (EG, ie, usual care and 3-week home-based PR) group within 48 hours of the diagnosis (baseline). Assessments were performed at baseline and after 3 weeks (post). The COPD assessment test (CAT) was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included measures of symptoms and functional capacity. After PR, interviews were conducted. Analyses were performed using (non-)parametric mixed analysis of variance, deductive thematic analysis and narrative integration through joint displays.ResultsFifty participants with outpatient-managed ECOPD (78% men, 70±11 years, forced expiratory volume in one second 47.4±16.4% pred) were included. Significant greater improvements in the EG compared with the CG were found for the CAT (EG Δ−12.5±7.2 vs CG Δ−5.9±7.2, p=0.002) and 12 of 13 other secondary outcome measures. A positive self-perceived impact of PR was found on symptoms, control of daily life, health, mental status and empowerment. No adverse events were reported.ConclusionsA 3-week home-based PR programme is safe, meaningful and more effective than just standard medication in improving symptoms, functional capacity and health status, outcomes often associated with poor prognosis. This highlights the role of PR in improving the recovery process during outpatient-managed ECOPD and might contribute to a better prognosis in these individuals.Trial registrationNCT03751670.
Limited immediate effects of wildfire on Alaska moose harvest
Authors: Brinkman Todd J. , Schmidt Jennifer I. , Paragi Thomas F. 
Published: December 2024

Qualitative studies have suggested that forest changes following a wildfire can challenge a hunter’s ability to harvest big game, such as moose ( Alces alces). Quantitative effects have not been estimated. Given the increasing prevalence of wildfires, the strong linkages between wildfire and moose habitat, and the importance of moose to the people of the boreal region of North America, our goal was to assess if and how moose harvest patterns changed immediately following a wildfire. To address that goal, we used 36 years (1984–2019) of spatially explicit wildfire and moose harvest data in Alaska to compare moose harvest variables the year before and year after a wildfire occurred. With a few exceptions, the number of hunters, kills, and success rates were similar ( p > 0.05, effect size < 0.3) between pre- and post-wildfire years. We estimated a weak to moderate effect on change in moose hunter numbers, kills, and success rate in only a small percentage (1.5%) of wildfires that burned a very large proportion (>38%) of a moose harvest reporting unit. Our findings suggest that wildfire has not caused a clear and functional quantitative effect on hunters’ ability to harvest moose in Alaska.
The role of relatedness, age, and origin in shaping social networks for two bison (Bison bison) herds in north-central Montana
Authors: Bresnan Claire , Creel Scott , Edwards Cody W. , Gooley Rebecca , Heidebrink Scott , Koepfli Klaus-Peter , McShea William , Pukazhenthi Budhan S. , Stutzman Johnathon , Shamon Hila 
Published: December 2024

Species with fission–fusion social organization, where groups break apart and merge over time, show variable subgroup stability. Plains bison ( Bison bison bison (Linnaeus, 1758)), a keystone species in North American grasslands, exhibit fission–fusion dynamics. However, it is unclear whether subgroups are stable over time nor whether they are composed of related individuals. We used fine-scale behavioral observations and movement data from GPS ear tags to construct social networks for two plains bison herds over multiple years at American Prairie in north-central Montana. These herds are semi-free roaming and graze year-round in 32.4 and 111.6 km2 fenced pastures. While the bison in our study did exhibit fission–fusion behavior, we did not observe stable subgroups in time-aggregated social networks constructed over single growing seasons (eigenvector modularity ranged from −0.008 to 0.027). We used Mantel tests to assess the relationships between association strength and relatedness, age, and place of origin. We found that only first-order relatives were more likely to associate, and shared age and place of origin had no significant impact. The observed lack of stable subgroups challenges prevailing assumptions and highlights the need for future research into the mechanisms of fission–fusion dynamics in plains bison and other managed social species.
Primary Retroperitoneal Seminoma—An Uncommon Presentation With Significant Implications
Authors: Sain S. , Tripathi S. , Bakshi N. , Das S. A. P. , Nundy S. 
Published: December 2024

Background: Primary retroperitoneal seminoma is an exceedingly rare type of germ cell tumor, accounting for less than 5% of all such tumors. These tumors are typically large at presentation due to their slow growth and the nonspecific nature of symptoms, which often leads to delayed diagnosis.Case Presentation: A 40‐year‐old male presented with intermittent abdominal pain and a palpable lump in the right paraumbilical region. Ultrasonography revealed a large retroperitoneal mass. Fine needle aspiration cytology confirmed the diagnosis of poorly differentiated malignant tumor, for which he was evaluated with CT‐angiogram of the abdomen and FDG PET‐CT scans, which showed a large retroperitoneal mass. The patient, then, had a surgical resection of the mass, with postoperative histopathological and immunohistochemical diagnosis of primary retroperitoneal seminoma, and then underwent three cycles of BEP chemotherapy. Scrotal ultrasonography showed no testicular abnormalities, obviating the need for orchiectomy. FDG PET showed a complete response following treatment completion. Postoperative management included routine monitoring of tumor markers and follow‐up imaging, which showed a complete response.Conclusion: This case highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of primary retroperitoneal seminoma. A multidisciplinary approach, including accurate histopathological diagnosis and a combination of chemotherapy and surgery, is essential for optimal management. Early diagnosis and tailored treatment strategies significantly improve patient outcomes.
Gelatin Extracted From Yanbian Cattle Skin Suppresses LPS‐Induced Inflammation in RAW264.7 Cells
Authors: Xin Xuanying , Liu Yihui , Jin Huaina , Ruan Zhaohui , Choi Seong-Ho , Park Sungkwon , Hur Sun Jin , Li Xiangzi 
Published: December 2024

Objective: To develop an efficient method for extracting gelatin from Yanbian cattle skin and to study its anti‐inflammatory effects.Methods: Gelatin was extracted using enzymatic hydrolysis and water extraction techniques. The basic structures of the prepared gelatin were analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, amino acid analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS). LPS established the RAW264.7 cell inflammation model in vitro. The therapeutic dose range of gelatin, which did not exhibit significant cytotoxicity, was determined using the CCK‐8 assay for subsequent experiments. The nitric oxide (NO) content was measured using the Griess method. The content of proinflammatory cytokines was determined using ELISA. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were detected using the DCFH‐DA fluorescent probe method, and oxidative stress–related indicators were measured using a kit. The mRNA expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), and proinflammatory cytokines were detected using qRT‐PCR. Western blot (WB) was used to detect the protein expression of iNOS and COX‐2 in each group.Results: Characteristic absorption peaks of gelatin were observed in the FT‐IR and UV spectra. Additionally, gelatin from Yanbian cattle skin significantly reduced NO content in cells, decreased the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, inhibited ROS generation, reduced oxidative stress–related indicators, significantly lowered the mRNA expression levels of iNOS, COX‐2, and proinflammatory cytokines in cells, and significantly reduced the protein expression of COX‐2 and iNOS.Conclusion: Enzymatic hydrolysis and water extraction efficiently prepare gelatin from Yanbian cattle skin. This gelatin can inhibit LPS‐induced inflammation in RAW264.7 cells, potentially by inhibiting the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and ameliorating oxidative stress.
Antibody-Drug Conjugates Targeting the EGFR Ligand Epiregulin Elicit Robust Anti-Tumor Activity in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Jacob Joan , Anami Yasuaki , High Peyton C. , Liang Zhengdong , Subramanian Shraddha , Ghosh Sukhen C. , AghaAmiri Solmaz , Guernsey-Biddle Cara , Tran Ha , Rowe Julie , Azhdarinia Ali , Tsuchikama Kyoji , Carmon Kendra S. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
As colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related death, identifying therapeutic targets and approaches is essential to improve patient outcomes. The EGFR ligand epiregulin (EREG) is highly expressed in RAS wildtype and mutant CRC with minimal expression in normal tissues, making it an attractive target for antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) development. In this study, we produced and purified an EREG monoclonal antibody (mAb), H231, that had high specificity and affinity for human and mouse EREG. H231 also internalized to lysosomes, which is important for ADC payload release. ImmunoPET and ex vivo biodistribution studies showed significant tumor uptake of 89Zr-labeled H231 with minimal uptake in normal tissues. H231 was conjugated to either cleavable dipeptide or tripeptide chemical linkers attached to the DNA-alkylating payload duocarmycin DM, and cytotoxicity of EREG ADCs was assessed in a panel of CRC cell lines. EREG ADCs incorporating tripeptide linkers demonstrated the highest potency in EREG-expressing CRC cells irrespective of RAS mutations. Preclinical safety and efficacy studies showed EREG ADCs were well-tolerated, neutralized EGFR pathway activity, caused significant tumor growth inhibition or regression, and increased survival in CRC cell line and patient-derived xenograft models. These data suggest EREG is a promising target for the development of ADCs for treating CRC and other cancer types that express high levels of EREG. While the efficacy of clinically approved anti-EGFR mAbs are largely limited by RAS mutational status, EREG ADCs may show promise for both RAS mutant and wildtype patients, thus improving existing treatment options.
ACKR1
hi
ECs Promote Aortic Dissection Through Adjusting Macrophage Behavior
Authors: Wang Yayu , Jia Xiong , Zhang Yifei , Zhang Bin , Zhou Yazhe , Li Xiaoru , Zhu Xiaoying , Xia Jinquan , Ren Jun , Zou Chang , Zheng Qijun 
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:
Type A aortic dissection (TAAD) is a life-threatening condition characterized by complex pathophysiology, in which macrophages play a critical but not yet fully understood role. This study focused on the role of endothelial cells with elevated expression of ACKR1 (atypical chemokine receptor 1) and their interaction with proinflammatory macrophages in TAAD development.

METHODS:
Single-cell transcriptomic analysis of human aortic tissues was used to identify cellular heterogeneity in TAAD. Clinical and animal studies evaluated the relationship between ACKR1 expression and TAAD severity. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments, involving modulation of ACKR1 expression in ECs, investigated its role in macrophage regulation. Molecular docking and in vitro/in vivo studies identified and tested potential drugs targeting ACKR1.

RESULTS:
TAAD tissues exhibited increased ECs with high ACKR1 expression and proinflammatory macrophages. High ACKR1 levels were strongly associated with TAAD severity. Knockdown of ACKR1 suppressed the NF-κB (nuclear factor-κB) signaling pathway and SPP1 (secreted phosphoprotein 1) expression, reducing macrophage migration and polarization, thereby inhibiting TAAD progression. Conversely, overexpression of ACKR1 exacerbated TAAD. Amikacin, identified as an ACKR1 targeted drug, regulated macrophage behavior via the ACKR1/NF-κB/SPP1 pathway, attenuating TAAD progression and improving survival in mice.

CONCLUSIONS:
This study reveals how endothelial cells exhibiting high ACKR1 expression modulate macrophage migration and proinflammatory polarization through the ACKR1/NF-κB/SPP1 signaling pathway, a crucial mechanism in TAAD progression. Targeting ACKR1 through both functional and pharmacological approaches effectively suppressed TAAD progression and extended survival in TAAD mice, offering promising new intervention strategies for clinical evaluation.
Pattern integration and differentiation: Dual process model of episodic memory
Authors: Evensmoen Hallvard Røe , Rimol Lars M. , Rise Henning Stople , Hansen Tor Ivar , Nili Hamed , Winkler Anderson M. , Håberg Asta 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The role of precise timing in episodic memory remains obscure. We showed 139 participants episodes consisting of objects, and tested subsequent memory for the precise timing and order of the objects and episodes. Temporal compression of the episode enhanced memory for relative but not absolute timing of the objects’ presentation and their order. Conversely, temporal expansion between neighboring episodes was associated with successful memory for episode order. fMRI in 36 participants revealed that temporal compression of the episode was associated with more similar activation patterns within episodes in several brain regions including the posterior hippocampus. However, the activation pattern in the anterior hippocampus and other brain regions became more unique with temporal expansion between neighboring episodes. We propose that human episodic memory relies on two fundamentally opposite processes: pattern integration helps strengthen the relationship between the items that make up an episode and pattern differentiation keeps different episodes apart.
Size and canopy characteristics of community reserves determine primate occupancy in the state of Meghalaya, India, and implications for its conservation
Authors: Kasbekar Sanyukta P. , Kumara Honnavalli N. , Bhor Siddhesh Sitaram , Babu S. , Karunakaran P.V. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Globally, the effective protected area network is one of the last resorts for conserving biodiversity. The nature of protected areas depends on the land ownership of the respective countries including India. The landholding in the northeastern states of India remains with native people, thus, ‘Community Reserve’ (CR) was introduced in 2003. Considering the high number of CR in Meghalaya that are home to many threatened primates, understanding their role in conserving the primates was crucial. We conducted day and night trail surveys in 32 CR of Meghalaya, and a questionnaire survey of local people for their perception of primates. We sampled basal area, tree density, canopy cover, canopy height, bamboo density, and human activity in each CR to test their influence on the occupancy of primates. We recorded the Western hoolock gibbon Hoolock hoolock, capped langur Trachypithecus pileatus, Northern pig-tailed macaque Macaca leonina, Assamese macaque Macaca assamensis, Rhesus macaque Macaca mulatta, and Bengal slow loris Nycticebus bengalensis. The primate richness and abundance were higher in the CR of Garo Hills than in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills. The gibbons had the highest patch occupancy, which was followed by capped langur, Assamese macaque, and pig-tailed macaque. Large-sized CR determined the occupancy of gibbons and Assamese macaques. Canopy cover positively influenced the occupancy of three primates except the Assamese macaque, whereas the canopy height had a positive association with three species of primates. The basal area, and tree density, negatively affected the occurrence of Assamese macaque, northern pig-tailed macaque, and capped langur. Macaques were the most hunted primates. The differential occurrence and abundance in different hill systems may be due to hunting and habitat size rather than habitat quality. Habitat restoration would improve the habitat quality with the involvement of communities to assist in retaining and avoiding the local extinction of primates.
The accusative singular of demonstratives and interrogatives in Albanian
Authors: de Vaan Michiel 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The animate accusative singulars of ky ‘this’, ai ‘that, he’, and kush ‘who’ are këtë, atë, and kë in Tosk dialects, whereas Geg vacillates between final -ë and nasal -ã, of which the latter is limited to argument position. Geg dialects furthermore distinguish kã ‘whom?’ from kãn ‘someone’. This article surveys the dialectal evidence from modern dialects, sketches the Old Albanian situation, and discusses the linguistic history of the relevant forms.
Exploring the Role of ChatGPT in Science Education for Asia-Pacific and Beyond: a Systematic Review
Authors: Park Hee Kyung , Martin Sonya Nichole 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This paper consists of a systematic review of the literature on ChatGPT’s application in science education, drawing from studies conducted between January and September 2023, examining the current landscape, challenges, and implications of integrating ChatGPT into science classrooms. Analysis revealed a predominant emphasis on physics and chemistry education, primarily in Europe and the United States, signaling the need for broader exploration across diverse scientific disciplines and geographical regions, particularly in Asia. While studies found that ChatGPT demonstrated proficiency in writing tasks, its grasp of scientific concepts remained limited, offering opportunities for users to develop their critical thinking skills by evaluating and analyzing its responses. Ethical considerations, including plagiarism detection and attribution, emerged as crucial areas for attention, necessitating clear guidelines and awareness initiatives for teachers and students. This paper informs educators and policymakers about the potential benefits and challenges associated with incorporating AI technologies like ChatGPT into science classrooms.
Disorientation as a Tool of Surveillance-Coercion-Control in the Family Policing/Regulation System
Authors: McMillan Joyce 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This article analyzes how the family policing/regulation system utilizes disorientation as a tool to implement successive stages of surveillance, coercion, and control and to tear apart Black families while capturing children in the foster system. Through specific examples based on both the author’s own experiences and those she has witnessed in her work, the process of how families are targeted and ensnared in the family policing/regulation system becomes visible.
Christian Communities in Lebanon under Ottoman Rule
Authors: Zreik Mohamad 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This review essay explores the socio-political conditions of Christian communities in Lebanon during the Ottoman Empire’s governance. The study examines the administrative, legal, and social frameworks that shaped the lives of Lebanese Christians under Ottoman rule. It reviews the degree of religious tolerance, the impact of the millet system, and the role of local leaders in mediating relationships between the Christian communities and the Ottoman authorities. By offering a comprehensive historical overview, this work provides a nuanced perspective on the coexistence and conflicts between Christian and Muslim populations, contributing to a broader understanding of interfaith dynamics during this critical period in Middle Eastern history.