bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Possible effects of pesticide on biological nitrogen removal in wastewater treatment processes: A review
Authors: Zungu Phumza Vuyokazi , Mpongwana Ncumisa , Bux Faizal 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe study filled a significant gap in our understanding of the possible effects of pesticide contamination on nitrogen removal in wastewater treatment. Pesticides, which are extensively utilized in agriculture, can enter wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) through a variety of routes, including runoff and leaching. Biological wastewater treatment processes rely on the coordinated activity of microorganisms to effectively remove pollutants from the systems. Therefore, understanding the structure of microbial communities and their relationships to changing environmental conditions is crucial for the development and optimization of these systems. While limited research exists on the impact of pesticides on nitrogen removal in wastewater treatment, this study extrapolated findings from existing literature on pesticide impacts in soil environments. The research identified that pesticide concentrations in wastewater range from 1 to 16 000 ng l−1, raising concerns about environmental consequences. It was shown that pesticides could significantly alter nitrogen removal processes by affecting microbial populations and enzymatic pathways. Despite lower pesticide concentrations in wastewater than in soil, even trace levels could impede nitrification and denitrification processes. The study emphasized the importance of conducting extensive investigations on pesticide impacts in wastewater systems, considering the specific variables and treatment processes involved. This review increased worldwide understanding on the topic by laying the groundwork for future research and emphasizing the importance of reducing pesticide impacts on wastewater treatment to safeguard the environment and public health.
Suppression of TRIM72‐mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress facilitates FOXM1 promotion of diabetic ulcer healing
Authors: Peng Lingling , Tian Yaning , Wu Xiangkai , Liu Fengqi , Zhou Mingzhu , Wu Zixi , Xia Yumin , Liu Xiaoming , Cheng Chuantao 
Published: December 2024

AbstractFoot ulcers are amongst the most prevalent complications of diabetes, known for their delayed healing process. Recent research indicates that the transcription factor forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) plays a role in promoting diabetic ulcer repair. However, the precise mechanisms underlying FOXM1 functions in this context remain unclear. This study aimed to clarify the role of tripartite motif‐containing protein 72 (TRIM72)‐mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress in FOXM1 promotive effects. Immunohistochemistry revealed that FOXM1 expression was significantly reduced in the lesion tissues of diabetic foot ulcer patients. In vitro experiments revealed a decrease in FOXM1 expression in cultured dermal fibroblasts under high glucose conditions. Activating FOXM1 with a plasmid accelerated the proliferation, migration, and differentiation of dermal fibroblasts and mitigated endoplasmic reticulum stress under high glucose conditions. Additionally, ChIP and luciferase reporter gene assays confirmed that FOXM1 suppressed TRIM72 expression transcriptionally by binding to its promoter. Furthermore, high glucose induced ubiquitination of adenosine 5′‐monophosphate‐activated protein kinase alpha (AMPKα), whilst inactivation of AMPKα signalling reversed the aforementioned effects of FOXM1 on cells. Finally, the FOXM1‐overexpressing plasmid was transfected in vivo, which promoted wound healing in a murine diabetic ulcer model. In conclusion, FOXM1 reduces endoplasmic reticulum stress by inhibiting TRIM72‐mediated AMPKα ubiquitination, thereby accelerating the healing of diabetic ulcers.
Recent advances in the structure, function and regulation of the volume‐regulated anion channels and their role in immunity
Authors: Yanushkevich Sergei , Zieminska Aleksandra , Gonzalez Joshua , Añazco Francisca , Song Richard , Arias‐Cavieres Alejandra , Granados Sara T. , Zou Junyi , Rao Yan , Concepcion Axel R. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractVolume‐regulated anion channels (VRACs) are heteromeric complexes formed by proteins of the leucine‐rich repeat‐containing 8 (LRRC8) family. LRRC8A (also known as SWELL1) is the core subunit required for VRAC function, and it must combine with one or more of the other paralogues (i.e. LRRC8B–E) to form functional heteromeric channels. VRACs were discovered in T lymphocytes over 35 years ago and are found in virtually all vertebrate cells. Initially, these anion channels were characterized for their role in Cl− efflux during the regulatory volume decrease process triggered when cells are subjected to hypotonic challenges. However, substantial evidence suggests that VRACs also transport small molecules under isotonic conditions. These findings have expanded the research on VRACs to explore their functions beyond volume regulation. In innate immune cells, VRACs promote inflammation by modulating the transport of immunomodulatory cyclic dinucleotides, itaconate and ATP. In adaptive immune cells, VRACs suppress their function by taking up cyclic dinucleotides to activate the STING signalling pathway. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of LRRC8 proteins in immunity and discuss recent progress in their structure, function, regulation and mechanisms for channel activation and gating. Finally, we also examine potential immunotherapeutic applications of VRAC modulation.
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Coconut Oil–Based Green Cutting Fluid for Sustainability of Machining Operations: Studies on Different Surface Roughnesses
Authors: Dehariya Lalit , Narayana Sarma Rakesh , Vakakuzhiyil Gopinathan Anju , Kailas Satish V. , Somarajan Suvin Parayantayyathu , Edachery Vimal 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Cutting fluids are crucial to machining, providing essential lubrication and thermal management during the process. Commercial Cutting Fluids (CCF) are generally based on mineral oils, with emulsifiers and additives that are produced chemically. Green Cutting Fluid (GCF), which is generally based on biodegradable plant-based oils, is an emerging alternative to CCF and is eco-friendly, non-toxic, and sustainable. In the present work, the viability of a coconut oil-based GCF has been evaluated to determine its suitability and effectiveness across a wide range of machining operations, by mimicking the surface roughness of various machining operations. For this, Ti–6Al–4V samples were prepared with unidirectional surface roughness in the 111- to 1350-nm range; the roughness range of various machining operations. The behavior of the GCF and CCF, including their Wettability, Interfacial Tension, Surface Energy, and tribological lubrication effectiveness, were studied and compared over these surfaces. The results show that the concentration of cutting fluid and surface roughness greatly influence the wettability and surface energy, respectively. GCF has shown competitive performance in comparison with CCF, showing its potential as a viable alternative to CCF . The article also includes a discussion on the sustainability and Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) analysis of the GCF, and the work is in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) 3, 11, 12, 13, and 15.
Beta-Alanine for Improving Exercise Capacity, Muscle Strength, and Functional Performance of Older Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: de Camargo Júlio Benvenutti Bueno , Brigatto Felipe Alves 
Published: December 2024

Background/Objective: Beta-alanine supplementation increases muscle carnosine content and also improves exercise capacity and performance in young adults, with mixed findings emerging from the few studies investigating its effects on older participants. Therefore, this study aimed to systematically review the evidence regarding the effects of beta-alanine on exercise capacity, muscle strength, and functional performance of older adults. Methods: This systematic review was conducted following the specific methodological guidelines of the Preferred Report Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses and the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale. Furthermore, the Cochrane risk-of-bias assessment tool was used. The search was carried out in five relevant databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library) from inception up to March 2024. Results: Of the 1,749 registers identified, only five met the established criteria and were included in this systematic review. A total of 163 older adults (mean age ± SD: 69.1 ± 2.8 years; range: 66.2–72.7 years) were included across all five studies. The majority of studies included participants from both genders. The mean intervention duration ± SD was 11.7 ± 1.0 weeks. The mean daily dosage was 2.7 ± 0.4 g/day (range: 2.4–3.2 g/day). Conclusion: Overall, exercise capacity may be improved following supplementation protocols with dosages ranging from 2.4 to 3.2 g/day. Muscle strength and functional performance do not seem to be improved by beta-alanine since these tasks are not significantly impacted by acidosis buildup.
Remote Lesson Study as Continuing Professional Development for Physical Education Teachers
Authors: Colburn Jeffrey , Knipe Robert , Doherty Brooke , Stephenson Rachyl , Hamilton Xiaofen 
Published: December 2024

Purpose: This study investigated experiences of physical education teachers (PETs) participating in online remote andragogy-based lesson study (AbLS) during a pandemic. Method: Five PETs participated in this phenomenological case study. Seventeen online AbLS collaborative meetings took place via Zoom software. Three rounds of semistructured interviews were conducted and analyzed using collaborative qualitative analysis. Results: Three themes emerged: (a) AbLS facilitated depth of learning, increasing professional and individual growth; (b) AbLS structure influenced experience; and (c) the professional community of AbLS supported a natural adult learning (andragogical) environment. Discussion/Conclusion: Remote AbLS presented benefits for these PETs beyond professional learning that prior continuing professional development had not, including a sense of community, belonging, and professional worth. AbLS may have implications for research in perceived mattering and continuing professional development facilitation for PETs. Remote AbLS may bolster PETs in challenging local learning communities.
The persistent pool of HIV-1-infected cells is formed episodically during untreated infection
Authors: Council Olivia D. , Tyers Lynn , Moeser Matthew , Sondgeroth Amy , Spielvogel Ean , Richardson Brian D. , Doolabh Deelan , Zhou Shuntai , Emery Ann , Archin Nancie M. , Shook-Sa Bonnie , Margolis David M. , Abdool Karim Salim S. , Kosakovsky Pond Sergei , Garrett Nigel , Abrahams Melissa-Rose , Joseph Sarah B. , Williamson Carolyn , Swanstrom Ronald 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Previous studies have shown that the majority of long-lived cells harboring persistent HIV-1 proviral genomes originates from viruses circulating in the year prior to antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation, but a smaller proportion originates from viruses circulating much earlier in untreated infection. These observations suggest that discrete biological factors influence the entry and persistence of viruses into the persistent proviral pool, and there may be periods earlier in untreated infection with increased seeding. Therefore, we examined the timing of formation of the long-lived pool of infected cells that persists during ART in seven women (after a median of 5.1 years of suppressive ART) by comparing the phylogenetic distance between unique 3′ half genome on-ART proviral sequences and longitudinally sampled pre-ART viral RNA sequences, focusing on the period >1 year prior to ART initiation (i.e., the “early” proviral pool). We constructed models of continuous entry into the persistent proviral pool prior to ART initiation and analyzed the fit of our experimentally derived data to these models. We found that the pattern of persistent proviral pool formation in five of seven participants is incongruent with a model of continuous entry, implying that persistent proviral pool formation can occur episodically during untreated infection. Notably, increased entry into the persistent proviral pool was not universally observed during acute infection, and the timing of enhanced early entry differed across the participants.

IMPORTANCE
Cells harboring HIV-1 proviruses that persist on antiretroviral therapy (ART) constitute the main barrier to an HIV-1 cure. Recent work has elucidated that the majority of persisting proviruses harbor HIV-1 variants circulating near the time of ART initiation, whether the proviruses are intact or defective, though a portion forms earlier in untreated infection. We examined the formation of the “early-forming” persistent proviral pool and found that in 5/7 participants, persistent proviral pool formation was episodic, rather than continuous, suggesting that there are host/biological factors that periodically enhance the formation of the persistent proviral pool. Further characterization of these factors will aid in the development of methods to abrogate their effect, thereby reducing the size of the persistent proviral pool.
Dose-dependent serological profiling of AdCLD-CoV19-1 vaccine in adults
Authors: Lee Jung Hyuk , Shin Yuna , Shin Kwang-Soo , Park Ju Yeon , Kim Mi Sun , Park Young-Shin , Kim Wuhyun , Song Joon Young , Noh Ji Yun , Cheong Hee Jin , Kang Chang-Yuil , Seo Sang Hwan , Kim Jae-Ouk , Kim Deok Ryun , Hwang Nathaniel S. , Yang Jae Seung , Kim Jerome H. , Shim Byoung-Shik , Song Manki 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

AdCLD-CoV19-1, a chimeric adenovirus-based severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine, was previously reported to elicit robust antibody responses in mice and non-human primates after a single dose. In this study, we conducted a systems serology analysis to investigate changes in humoral immune responses induced by varying doses of the AdCLD-CoV19-1 vaccine in a phase I clinical trial. Serum samples from participants receiving either a low or a high dose of the vaccine were analyzed for antibody features against prototype SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) domains (full-length S, S1, S2, and receptor binding domain), as well as Fc receptor binding and effector functions. While both low- and high-dose vaccines induced robust humoral immune responses following vaccination, the quality of antibody features differed between the dose groups. Notably, while no significant difference was observed between the groups in the induction of most S1-specific antibody features, the high-dose group exhibited higher levels of antibodies and a stronger Fc receptor binding response specific to the S2 antigen. Moreover, univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that the high-dose vaccine induced higher levels of S2-specific antibodies binding to FcγR2A and FcγR3B, closely associated with antibody-dependent neutrophil phagocytosis (ADNP). Further analysis using the Omicron BA.2 variant demonstrated that the high-dose group maintained significantly higher levels of IgG and FcγR3B binding to the S2 antigen and exhibited a significantly higher ADNP response for the S2 antigen compared with the low-dose group. These findings underscore the importance of considering diverse humoral immune responses when evaluating vaccine efficacy and provide insights for optimizing adenovirus vector-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccine doses.

IMPORTANCE
Optimization of vaccine dose is crucial for eliciting effective immune responses. In addition to neutralizing antibodies, non-neutralizing antibodies that mediate Fc-dependent effector functions play a key role in protection against various infectious diseases, including coronavirus disease 2019. Using a systems serology approach, we demonstrated significant dose-dependent differences in the humoral immune responses induced by the AdCLD-CoV19-1 chimeric adenovirus-based severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine, particularly against the SARS-CoV-2 spike 2 domain. These findings highlight the importance of assessing not only neutralizing antibody titers but also the quality and functionality of antibody responses when evaluating vaccine efficacy.
Genome evolution following an ecological shift in nectar-dwelling
Acinetobacter
Authors: Sanchez Vivianna A. , Renner Tanya , Baker Lydia J. , Hendry Tory A. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

The bacterial genus
Acinetobacter
includes species found in environmental habitats like soil and water, as well as taxa adapted to be host-associated or pathogenic. High genetic diversity may allow for this habitat flexibility, but the specific genes underlying switches between habitats are poorly understood. One lineage of
Acinetobacter
has undergone a substantial habitat change by evolving from a presumed soil-dwelling ancestral state to thrive in floral nectar. Here, we compared the genomes of floral-dwelling and pollinator-associated
Acinetobacter
, including newly described species, with genomes from relatives found in other environments to determine the genomic changes associated with this ecological shift. Following one evolutionary origin of floral nectar adaptation, nectar-dwelling
Acinetobacter
taxa have undergone reduction in genome size compared with relatives and have experienced dynamic gene gains and losses as they diversified. Gene content changes suggest a shift to metabolism of monosaccharides rather than diverse carbohydrates, and scavenging of nitrogen sources, which we predict to be beneficial in nectar environments. Gene gains appear to result from duplication events, evolutionary divergence, and horizontal gene transfer. Most notably, nectar-dwelling
Acinetobacter
acquired the ability to degrade pectin from plant pathogens, and the genes underlying this ability have duplicated and are under selection within the clade. We hypothesize that this ability was a key trait for adaptation to floral nectar, as it could improve access to nutrients in the nutritionally unbalanced habitat of nectar. These results identify the genomic changes and traits coinciding with a dramatic habitat switch from soil to floral nectar.

IMPORTANCE

Many bacteria, including the genus
Acinetobacter
, commonly evolve to exploit new habitats. However, the genetic changes that underlie habitat switches are often unknown. Floral nectar is home to specialized microbes that can grow in this nutritionally unbalanced habitat. Several specialized
Acinetobacter
species evolved from soil-dwelling relatives to become common and abundant in floral nectar. Here, we investigate the genomic adaptations required to successfully colonize a novel habitat like floral nectar. We performed comparative genomics analyses between nectar-dwelling
Acinetobacter
and
Acinetobacter
species from other environments, like soil and water. We find that although gene loss coincided with the switch to living in nectar, gains of specific genes from other bacteria may have been particularly important for this ecological change.
Acinetobacter
living in nectar gained genes for degrading pectin, a plant polysaccharide, which may improve access to nutrients in their environment. These findings shed light on how evolutionary novelty evolves in bacteria.
Impact of COVID-19 on hospital visit behaviour in cancer patients in Japan: a nationwide study
Authors: Seishima Ryo , Tachimori Hisateru , Fukuda Kazumasa , Ikeda Norihiko , Miyata Hiroaki , Fushimi Kiyohide , Kitagawa Yuko 
Published: December 2024

ObjectivesLockdowns and outing restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic may have altered attitudes towards hospital visits. This study aimed to investigate changes in long-distance visits outside of secondary healthcare service areas (SHSA) among cancer patients in Japan.DesignRetrospective observational study.SettingInpatient data from the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database.Primary and secondary outcome measuresWe retrospectively analysed inpatient data from January 2018 to December 2021, extracted from the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database. The study examined whether the patient’s hospital was within their residence’s SHSA and compared the admission rates before and after the pandemic.ResultsThe data of a total of 2 394 760 patients were analysed. Admission rates outside the SHSA significantly decreased after the pandemic compared with prepandemic years (26.67% and 27.58%, respectively, p<0.001). Significant reductions were observed in nearly all age groups over 30 years old, but not in younger ones. Characteristics of patients’ residences, including COVID-19 infection rates, population density and the number of regional cancer hospitals, were also influential factors. The cancer site was a significant factor, with the respiratory system showing a 3.77% decrease, particularly a 5.29% decrease in those who needed surgeries that are not highly specialised (p<0.001).ConclusionsAdmission to distant hospitals among cancer patients decreased following the COVID-19 pandemic, indicating a restraint in their behaviour of visiting distant hospitals. The appropriate allocation of specialised hospitals will serve as a measure for the next pandemic.
Efficacy and Safety of Prophylactic Agents in Prevention of Retinopathy of Prematurity: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Batais Waleed T , Taher Nada O , Alhindi Abeer K , Ghaddaf Abdullah A , Alamoudi Anas , Al-Ghamdi Sarah A , Homsi Jumanah J , Almarzouki Hashem S , Qurashi Mansour A 
Published: December 2024

ObjectiveRetinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a leading cause of preventable childhood blindness in preterm infants with low birth weight. The efficacy and safety of prophylactic agents, including vitamin A, propranolol and lipids, in reducing ROP incidence remain unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness and safety of these agents in preventing ROP.Methods and AnalysisA systematic search was conducted in Embase, MEDLINE and CENTRAL databases. Eight randomised controlled trials involving 1101 preterm infants were included. We assessed the incidence of ROP at any stage, severe ROP, adverse events and mortality. Subgroup analyses were performed for each prophylactic agent. Data were pooled using the inverse variance weighting method and reported as risk ratios (RRs) with 95% CI.ResultsNo significant reduction in ROP incidence at any stage was found in the intervention groups compared with placebo (RR=0.83; 95% CI= (0.69 to 1.00); p=0.05; I²=0%). Lipids significantly reduced severe ROP incidence (RR=0.48; 95% CI= (0.28 to 0.80); p=0.005), while vitamin A (RR=1.14; 95% CI= (0.51 to 2.54); p=0.75) and propranolol (RR=0.69; 95% CI= (0.29 to 1.65); p=0.41) did not. There were no significant differences in adverse events (RR=0.83; 95% CI= (0.59 to 1.17); p=0.28) or mortality (RR=0.93; 95% CI= (0.67 to 1.30); p=0.68) across all groups.ConclusionLipids show promise in reducing severe ROP in preterm infants, while vitamin A and propranolol were not effective. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and explore the potential role of lipids in clinical practice.