bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Tritrophic interactions in a changing climate: a seed-feeding moth and its larval ectoparasitoids along an elevational gradient
Authors: Randall Martin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Anthropogenic climate change is having measurable effects on the phenology and distribution of organisms, with many species moving polewards or to higher elevations. Temperature-driven elevational range shifts can vary between species and therefore interactions within multitrophic systems are expected to alter along elevational gradients, however there is limited empirical evidence to test this hypothesis. The tritrophic interactions between the seed-feeding moth Coleophora alticolella, its larval ectoparasitoids and its host plant, the rush Juncus squarrosus, were surveyed along the same elevational gradient in northern England in 1977 and 1978, and again in 2019 and 2021. Spatio-temporal changes in these trophic levels over the intervening forty-year period were more complex than a simple synchronous upslope shift of the whole system. Seed production by J. squarrosus greatly increased at equivalent elevations since 1977/1978. Floret production by inflorescences was significantly higher than expected from recent temperature changes. Seed capsule ripening was also greater at higher elevations in the warmer summers of 2019 and 2021. The elevational limit of C. alticolella distribution and the elevation of peak larval densities both rose more than the change in the isotherm recorded for this area since 1977. The rate of larval parasitisation was greater at equivalent sites in 2019 and 2021 than previously and the structure of the ectoparasitoid community on C. alticolella larvae had changed. The ectoparasitoids also occurred at higher elevations but their elevational gains were less than for their host. Implications for insect conservation: Understanding the impact of climate-related changes on insects is currently of major importance for insect conservation. In addition to assessing the effect of these changes on an individual species, this study shows that measuring longer-term changes within a multitrophic system across a spatial dimension can reveal additional insights for conservation and management strategies.
Codon usage bias analysis in the chloroplast genomes of diatoms within the family Thalassiosiraceae and Skeletonemataceae
Authors: Yao Huiying , Xu Yi , Lan Yanhong , Xiang Dongyou , Jiao Pengrui , Xu Hui , Qiao Dairong , Cao Yi 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Diatoms, as the important primary producers in the ocean, play a crucial role in the marine carbon cycle. Despite their crucial role in marine biogeochemical cycles and carbon sequestration, detailed analyses of codon usage patterns in diatom chloroplast genomes have been limited. This study investigates the codon usage bias (CUB) in the chloroplast genomes of 12 representative diatoms within the family Thalassiosiraceae and Skeletonemataceae. In the present research, codon composition and factors influencing CUB were analyzed. The comprehensive research into the proliferation of the chloroplast genome unveils a distinct preference for A and T(U) in the codon usage of diatom chloroplast genomes, with significant variations in GC content across different codon positions. Our results also reveal that the chloroplast genes of these diatoms exhibit specific codon usage biases, with some codons being preferentially utilized over others. Meanwhile, six optimal codons are shared among the chloroplast genomes of 12 diatom species: UUU, GGA, CGA, AAU, CAU and UAU. Based on the effective number of codons (ENC) and relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) results, we propose that natural selection is the predominant mechanism contributing to the CUB. Moreover, the Ka/Ks ratios of 265 orthologous coding genes also indicate that these chloroplast genomes were predominantly subjected to purifying selection during the evolutionary process. Our study reveals the pattern of CUB in diatoms and provides valuable information for future genetic engineering of microalgae. These findings may also inform strategies for enhancing CO2 fixation by diatoms and offer perspectives on microalgal adaptation to environmental changes.
Comprehensive structural variant haplotype panel of 943 Han Chinese from long-read whole-genome sequencing
Authors: Gong Tingting , Zhou Yulu , Huang Yechao , Zhao Junfan , Gong Jiao , Li Jinxi , Peng Qianqian , Wang Sijia , Jin Li , Fan Shaohua 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Structural variations (SVs) are important genomic elements in evolution and disease, yet they remain underutilized in genome-wide association studies (GWAS) due to technical challenges and high cost in their detection and genotyping.
Results
We developed a comprehensive haplotype reference panel incorporating over 35 million variants, including 172,569 SVs, from 943 Han Chinese individuals. Our novel hybrid phasing approach, combining long-read-based and statistical methods, achieved phasing accuracy in unrelated individuals comparable to trio-based phasing, and significantly reduced error rates for both small variants and SVs compared to conventional statistical phasing. The panel enabled a four-fold improvement in high-quality SV imputation and 31% higher SV imputation sensitivity compared to the expanded 1000 Genomes Project panel. GWAS analysis incorporating SVs identified 37 independent SV signals and 99 previously unreported regions across 62 skin-related phenotypes, demonstrating superior performance over GWAS using only short-read sequencing variants. Further analysis using our panel-imputed variants revealed two significantly associated SVs and two novel regions for fingerprint phenotypes, expanding upon findings from the original study that used the 1000 Genomes Project reference panel.
Conclusions
This study presents a comprehensive SV-enriched haplotype reference panel and demonstrates the value of including SVs in GWAS for understanding the genetic architecture of complex traits and diseases.
Layered Double Hydroxides: Sol-Gel Synthesis, Characterization and Application
Authors: Klydziute Gabriele , Gliaudyte Laura , Sokol Denis , Vasiliauskiene Dovile , Yang Thomas Chung-Kuang , Kareiva Aivaras 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) belong to a class of layered materials with a general chemical formula of [[MII1-xMIIIx(OH)2]x+(Am-)x/m]·nH2O. The structure of LDH is formed by positively charged metal hydroxide layers [MII1-xMIIIx(OH)2]x+ and negatively charged anions (Am-)x/m in the interlayer space. As a rule, H2O molecules are also present in the interlayer space. A large number of LDHs can be synthesised by varying either the nature of the cations or anions. Consequently, new materials can be obtained with specific properties. LDHs could be used as efficient adsorbents for liquid ions and gas molecules for the removal of anionic toxins (arsenate, chromate, selenite and other) and also toxic metals ions for water purification; as catalyst supports; as catalysts for oxidation, reduction and other reactions; LDHs within inorganic membranes in sensor devices; for anticorrosion protection of metal alloys; as bio-nanohybrids with ability to incorporate large molecules for drug and gens delivery, cosmetics, cancer therapy and biosensing and other. Recently, we developed indirect sol-gel synthesis methods for the fabrication of LDHs. This sol-gel chemistry approach is perfect synthesis method to fabricate substituted with transition and rare earth metals LDHs with specific properties. The Mg2Al1, Mg2-xZnxAl1 and Mg2Al1-xLax LDHs were successfully synthesized by a simple sol-gel synthetic approach. These results are presented and discussed in this study.
Anti-arthritic effects of dibenzylbutane lignans from Litsea cubeba through suppression of MEK-ERK-p90RSK signalling
Authors: Dai Yuanyuan , Feng Kunmiao , Han Ping , Wu Huifen , Shen Hui , Zhang Qiaoyan , Jia Dan , Qin Luping , Han Ting 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory polyarthritis leading to irreversible damage to the joints. The roots of Litsea cubeba (Lour.) Pers. (Family Lauraceae) has long been used as Dai Ethnopharmacy folk remedies for rheumatism. Our previous research found that LCA, a new type of dibenzyl butane lignin compound from L. cubeba, inhibited RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation by suppressing Akt and MAPK pathways. This study aims to evaluate the anti-arthritic effects of LCA and its synthetic analogue (LCA1), as well as the underlying mechanism. In vitro anti-arthritic effects of LCA and LCA1 were evaluated in TNF-α-stimulated fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) by measuring cell proliferation and the expression of inflammatory factors with MTT assay, flow cytometry and ELISA. Western blotting was used to investigate the mechanism. Additionally, in vivo anti-arthritic effects of the dibenzylbutane lignans were detected in carrageenan-induced air pouch inflammation model in mice and adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) in rats. Results showed that both LCA and LCA1 suppressed inflammatory factors in the air pouch model. LCA markedly suppressed the inflammation, weight loss, and bone erosion in AIA rats. These data suggested that LCA and LCA1 may have therapeutic benefits in RA through regulation of apoptosis and inflammation in vitro and in vivo.
Identification with world citizenship predicts life satisfaction
Authors: Spiteri Glen , Kim Seamus , Lieder Falk 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The challenges of the 21st century, such as climate change, pandemics, and global inequality, necessitate a degree of cooperation that transcends national interests. While national belonging can positively contribute to life satisfaction, it can also reinforce and highlight divisions between people of different nationalities. We set out to document how people’s identification as national and global citizens, and national pride impact life satisfaction. To this end, we analyzed data from the World Values Survey (WVS) using a sample of 130,078 individuals in developing and developed countries. Using mixed models, we found that global citizenship identification, national citizenship identification, and national pride all robustly predict life satisfaction. Moreover, global citizenship identification moderates the impacts of both national citizenship identification and national pride on life satisfaction, such that individuals with higher global citizenship identification benefit less from national citizenship identification and national pride than those with lower global citizenship identification. Crucially, global citizenship identification is especially beneficial for life satisfaction when national citizenship identification and/or national pride are low.
Determinants of food insecurity: a text mining approach
Authors: Carneiro Bia , Resce Giuliano , Ruscica Giosuè , Eilerts Gary , Caravaggio Nicola , Santangelo Agapito , Tucci Giulia , Pacillo Grazia , Läderach Peter , Coffey Kevin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This study applies Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Machine Learning (ML) to investigate global historical trends in food security. Using USAID’s Famine Early Warning Systems Network’s (FEWS NET) comprehensive reports spanning over two dozen countries, it explores prevalent dimensions such as shocks, outcomes, and coping capacities, offering insights into long-term food security conditions. Results highlight the prevalence of market and climate impacts across the countries and period considered. Based on results from the topic classification, ML models were applied to determine the most important factors that predict food insecurity. The analysis confirmed market shocks as the main predictors of food insecurity, globally. The approach demonstrates the potential for extracting valuable insights from narrative sources that can support decision-making and strategic planning. This integrated approach not only enhances understanding of food security but also presents a versatile tool applicable beyond the context of humanitarian aid.
Japanese Literature Students` Perspective on Weeaboo Who has an Imaginary Couple Waifu/Husbando
Authors: Hermawan Daniel , Marciu Rendi 
Published: November 2024

The phenomenon of waifu/husbando, originating from Japanese pop culture, permeated society and became a compelling subject of interest. The research delved into the perspectives of people who had a relationship with fictional characters. Data collection was done through interviews with eight students in Japanese Literature across Java Island. The research drew upon insights and data to unravel the societal perceptions surrounding waifu/husbando enthusiasts. The research applied a qualitative approach, so the analysis produced descriptive data in the form of words. The findings highlight a nuanced form of discrimination and labeling. Contrary to common assumptions, the prejudice faced by those with waifu/husbando connections is not rooted in a mere appreciation for fictional characters but extends to a broader bias against anime enthusiasts. Individuals who proudly profess their love for anime by adopting waifu/husbando are often stigmatized with the label of weeaboo, illustrating a broader societal bias against this subculture. The distinction between these two categories sheds light on the complex interplay of societal attitudes towards fantasy relationships rooted in different cultural realms. The research contributes to a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics surrounding waifu/husbando culture and challenges prevailing stereotypes by emphasizing the role of broader societal biases against anime enthusiasts.
Water quality characterization for two lakes in Panchkula, Haryana, India
Authors: Vasistha Prachi , Ganguly Rajiv 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

The rising concerns surrounding water scarcity have prompted a closer examination of water sources to determine their suitability for various purposes based on their quality. Multivariate Statistical Analysis (MSA) is often used for grouping pollution sources based on their shared characteristics. Techniques such as Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis, Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) are employed for in-depth parametric analysis. Additionally, the quantification of these parameters is carried out using both traditional Water Quality Index (WQI) methods and the newer Modified Water Quality Index (MWQI). For the present study, the MSA revealed elevated levels of electrical conductivity (EC), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and chemical oxygen demand (COD), primarily due to sediment influx from watershed areas and increased agricultural activities around the lakes. HCA indicated moderate pollution levels, further corroborated by the three selected WQI techniques. Overall, the water quality in both lakes was deemed ‘good’ across their entire expanse, suggesting they can be used directly for activities such as bathing, boating, and irrigation. However, for drinking purposes, some degree of treatment was still necessary.
Percepción de barreras de género para el ejercicio del liderazgo en una universidad estatal de Chile
Authors: Suárez-Amaya Wendolin , Ganga-Contreras Francisco Anibal , Pérez Marcela Freire , Villegas Francisco Javier 
Published: November 2024

Las barreras de género en la academia son un conjunto de obstáculos que limitan la participación equitativa de las mujeres en el ámbito académico. Estas barreras pueden manifestarse de diversas formas, desde las expectativas culturales y estereotipos de género hasta las políticas institucionales y prácticas cotidianas. El objetivo del estudio es analizar las percepciones sobre barreras de género de académicas que ocupan posiciones de liderazgo en una universidad estatal de Chile, para el comprender el desarrollo del liderazgo en este tipo de entidades educativas. El estudio utilizó una metodología cualitativa y descriptiva, interpretando la realidad según lo expresado por las participantes voluntarias. Como principales resultados, se identificaron barreras significativas para el liderazgo femenino, destacando la percepción de desigualdad de género y las dificultades en la participación y toma de decisiones. Las entrevistas revelaron que, aunque se han implementado políticas de género en las universidades chilenas, persisten desafíos como la cultura institucional, para asegurar una verdadera igualdad de oportunidades y desarrollo de mujeres en cargos de liderazgo universitario. Los hallazgos sugieren consideraciones que pueden ser útiles para desarrollar estrategias más inclusivas en la gestión universitaria.
An Innovative Telomere-associated Prognosis Model in AML: Predicting Immune Infiltration and Treatment Responsiveness
Authors: Song Binyang , Lou Jinzhan , Mu Lijun , Lu Xiao , Sun Jian , Tang Bo 
Published: November 2024

Aims:
To build an innovative telomere-associated scoring model to predict
prognosis and treatment responsiveness in acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

Background:
AML is a highly heterogeneous malignant hematologic disorder with a
poor prognosis. While telomere maintenance is frequently observed in tumors, investigations
into telomere-related genes (TRGs) in AML remain limited.

Objectives:
This study aimed to identify prognostic TRGs using the least absolute shrinkage
and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression and multivariate Cox regression,
evaluate their predictive value, explore the association between TRG scores and immune
cell infiltration, and assess the sensitivity of high-scoring AML patients to chemotherapeutic
agents.

Method:
Univariate Cox regression analysis was conducted on the TCGA cohort to identify
prognostic TRGs and to develop the TRG scoring model using LASSO-Cox and
multivariate Cox regression. Validation was performed on the GSE37642 cohort. Immune
cell infiltration patterns were assessed through computational analysis, and the sensitivity
to chemotherapeutic agents was evaluated.

Results:
Thirteen prognostic TRGs were identified, and a seven-TRG scoring model (including
NOP10, OBFC1, PINX1, RPA2, SMG5, MAPKAPK5, and SMN1) was developed.
Higher TRG scores were associated with a poorer prognosis, as confirmed in the
GSE37642 cohort, and remained an independent prognostic factor even after adjusting
for other clinical characteristics. The high-score group was characterized by elevated infiltration
of B cells, T helper cells, natural killer cells, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes,
regulatory T (Treg) cells, M2 macrophages, neutrophils, and monocytes, along with reduced
infiltration of gamma delta T cells, CD4- T cells, and resting mast cells. Moreover,
high infiltration of M2 macrophages and Tregs was associated with poor overall
survival compared to low infiltration. Notably, high-risk AML patients were resistant to
Erlotinib, Parthenolide, and Nutlin-3a, but sensitive to AC220, Midostaurin, and Tipifarnib.
Additionally, using RT-qPCR, we observed significantly higher expression of
two model genes, OBFC1 and SMN1, in AML tissues compared to control tissues.

Conclusion:
This innovative TRG scoring model demonstrates considerable predictive
value for AML patient prognosis, offering valuable insights for optimizing treatment
strategies and personalized medicine approaches. The identified TRGs and associated
scoring models could aid in risk stratification and guide tailored therapeutic interventions
in AML patients.
Preparation of DOX-TPP/HA-ss-OA Nanoparticles, Investigation of Drug Release Behavior In Vitro, and Evaluation of Anti-proliferative Activity
In Vitro
Authors: Fei Xuanting , Hu Qiaohong 
Published: November 2024

Objective:
This study aimed to develop and characterize DOX-TPP/HA-ss-OA nanoparticles,
utilizing the mitochondria-targeting prodrug doxorubicin-triphenylphosphine (DOXTPP)
and a reduction-sensitive amphiphilic polymer, hyaluronic acid-disulfide-oleic acid (HAss-
OA). The research focused on evaluating the drug release behavior of these nanoparticles under
varying glutathione (GSH) concentrations and their anti-tumor activity in vitro.

Methods:
DOX-TPP/HA-ss-OA nanoparticles were prepared using probe ultrasound technology.
The study examined the impact of different organic solvents on drug loading capacity and encapsulation
efficiency to determine the optimal conditions. A single-factor experimental design was
used to optimize the formulation process. Key parameters, including particle size and zeta potential,
were measured to assess nanoparticle stability and performance. The dynamic dialysis
method was employed to evaluate the reduction-sensitive drug release characteristics in media
with different GSH concentrations. The MTT assay was used to analyze the growth-inhibitory
effects of the nanoparticles on human breast cancer cells (MCF-7) and drug-resistant cells
(MCF-7/ADR).

Results:
The optimized preparation process for DOX-TPP/HA-ss-OA nanoparticles included a
drug dosage of 2.0 mg, an oil-to-water volume ratio of 1:5, ultrasonic power of 500 W, and ultrasonic
time of 15 minutes. The nanoparticles had an average particle size of 203.72 ± 2.30 nm
and a zeta potential of 25.82 ± 0.58 mV, indicating favorable stability and effective drug delivery
properties. The nanoparticles exhibited a slow, sustained release of DOX-TPP in pH 7.4 phosphate
buffer solution (PBS) and accelerated release in high GSH concentrations, demonstrating
reduction-responsive drug release. In vitro studies showed that DOX-TPP/HA-ss-OA nanoparticles
significantly inhibited the proliferation of MCF-7 and MCF-7/ADR cells in a dosedependent
manner, with enhanced efficacy compared to free DOX and other formulations.

Conclusion:
DOX-TPP/HA-ss-OA nanoparticles demonstrate excellent reduction sensitivity, effective
tumor cell growth inhibition in vitro, and the ability to overcome drug resistance. Including
particle size and zeta potential measurements supports their suitability as drug carriers, highlighting
their potential for targeted cancer therapy and further development.
Myotoxicity of Crotoxin on C2C12 Myoblasts and its Inhibition by Crotalus Neutralizing Factor versus Enhanced Resistance in Myotubes: Exploring Toxicity and Membrane Potential
Authors: Tavares Maria Naiara Macedo , Eulálio Micaela de Melo Cordeiro , Santana Hallison Mota , Boeno Charles Nunes , Reis Valdison Pereira dos , Alves Rego Cristina Matiele , Ferreira e Ferreira Alex Augusto , Paloschi Mauro Valentino , Soares Andreimar M. , Fortes-Dias Consuelo Latorre , Setúbal Sulamita Silva , Zuliani Juliana Pavan 
Published: November 2024

Background:
Crotalus Neutralizing Factor (CNF) is a γ-type Phospholipase A2 (PLA2)
inhibitor present in the blood of Crotalus durissus terrificus snake. Particularly, CNF inhibits the
toxic action of Crotoxin (CTX), which is a major neurotoxin found in C. d. terrificus venom. CTX
induces also myotoxic action and demonstrates high selectivity for skeletal muscle fibers. Consequently,
CTX can diffuse beyond the site of infection, which can potentially evoke rhabdomyolysis.
The present study has evaluated the effects of CTX on myoblasts and myotubes of muscle
cells C2C12 in vitro and the effect of CNF on CTX-induced damage.

Methods:
Cytotoxicity assays were performed by measuring the mitochondrial enzyme dehydrogenase
levels. Furthermore, creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase levels were used as indicators
of muscle damage.

Results:
Crotoxin has been found to have cytotoxic effects on C2C12 myoblast cells, while CNF
has not shown toxic effects on these cells. Furthermore, the findings have shown CNF (50 μg/mL)
to abolish CTX toxicity in myoblasts. The myotubes, differentiated cells, showed no change in mitochondrial
respiration when exposed to CNF or CTX, showing greater resistance to the toxic actions
of crotoxin.

Conclusion:
The data have confirmed the potential of CNF as an anti-myotoxic agent to prevent
CTX-damaged myoblasts and increase resistance to the toxic effects of crotoxin on differentiated
cells.