bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development and Application of a Portable Environmental DNA Test for the Detection of Rafetus swinhoei in Viet Nam
Authors: Seimon Tracie A. , Van Long Nguyen , Le Minh , McCormack Timothy E. M. , Nguyen Tham Thi , Ngo Hanh , Thang Nguyen Tai , Hoang Thuy , Platt Steven G. , Van Ha Hoang , Van Trong Nguyen , Horne Brian , Barrett Colleen A. , McAloose Denise , Calle Paul P. 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTSwinhoe's (or Yangtze) giant softshell turtle (Rafetus swinhoei) is a large, critically endangered freshwater turtle and considered among the rarest species in the world. As of 2024, only two individuals have been confirmed to remain alive, one at the Suzhou Zoo in China and one in Xuan Khanh Lake, Viet Nam. The only hope for the long‐term survival of R. swinhoei is finding additional, as yet undiscovered, animals that have thus far eluded detection by traditional survey methods. In recent years, numerous studies have been published on the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) for species detection and monitoring. This method takes advantage of the persistence of DNA in the environment, such as in water, soil, and air. An organism's DNA is shed into the environment through urine, feces, and the sloughing of skin. Species‐specific quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) testing can be used to detect eDNA in samples collected from the environment. eDNA trials to detect R. swinhoei were initiated by the Asian Turtle Program and Washington State University in 2013. To expand the use of eDNA for species detection by conservationists, we developed and validated a first‐of‐its‐kind innovative point‐of‐detection (POD) qPCR platform for the rapid, onsite detection of R. swinhoei from water samples. Here we show that the portable eDNA test kit can be used for the successful detection of R. swinhoei in a large body of water and that pooling filters may be a useful strategy to reduce test costs and improve detection efficiency. Use of this test can expand the search for R. swinhoei in unexplored and understudied lakes, reservoirs, and other bodies of water where this species may be present and could inform field surveys utilizing eDNA for other threatened species that are rare in nature.
Catestatin as a predictor for cardiac death in heart failure with mildly reduced and preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Chu Song‐Yun , Peng Fen , Wang Jie , Liu Lin , Zhao Jing , Han Xiao‐Ning , Ding Wen‐Hui 
Published: October 2024

AbstractAimsEndogenous catecholamine release‐inhibitory peptide catestatin has been associated with heart failure (HF). This subgroup analysis of our cohort of HF compared the different effects of catestatin as a predictor for cardiac outcomes in patients with HF with reduced (HFrEF), mildly reduced (HFmrEF) or preserved (HFpEF) ejection fraction.MethodsPlasma catestatin was measured in the HF patient cohort of 228 cases with a whole spectrum of ejection fraction. The cardiac deaths were analysed according to prespecified subgroups.ResultsOver a median follow‐up of 52.5 months, the association between plasma catestatin and cardiac death was different in patients with HFrEF, HFmrEF or HFpEF [hazard ratio (HR) 1.53, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.99–2.37 and HR 2.73, 95% CI 1.56–4.75, respectively; interaction P = 0.022]. Patients with HFmrEF/HFpEF were older and more likely to be female, with non‐ischaemic cardiomyopathy and atrial fibrillation but lower levels of plasma B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP). Similar adverse cardiac events occurred in patients with HFmrEF/HFpEF as in HFrEF. Plasma catestatin was a better predictor for cardiovascular death in the HFmrEF/HFpEF patients [area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) = 0.72, 95% CI 0.45–0.74] than in the HFrEF patients (AUC = 0.59, 95% CI 0.587–0.849). The optimal cut point of plasma catestatin level of 0.86 ng/mL predicted a 2.80‐fold elevated risk for cardiac death in HFmrEF/HFpEF.ConclusionsElevated plasma catestatin might be a more sensitive predictor for cardiac outcome in patients with HFmrEF/HFpEF than in HFrEF.
A20 intrinsically influences human effector T‐cell survival and function by regulating both NF‐κB and JNK signaling
Authors: Dabbah‐Krancher Gina , Ruchinskas Allison , Kallarakal Melissa A. , Lee Katherine P. , Bauman Bradly M. , Epstein Benjamin , Yin Hongli , Krappmann Daniel , Schaefer Brian C. , Snow Andrew L. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractA20 is a dual‐function ubiquitin‐editing enzyme that maintains immune homeostasis by restraining inflammation. Although A20 serves a similar negative feedback function for T‐cell receptor (TCR) signaling, the molecular mechanisms utilized and their ultimate impact on human T‐cell function remain unclear. TCR engagement triggers the assembly of the CARD11‐BCL10‐MALT1 (CBM) protein complex, a signaling platform that governs the activation of downstream transcription factors including NF‐κB and c‐Jun/AP‐1. Utilizing WT and A20 knockout Jurkat T cells, we found that A20 is required to negatively regulate NF‐κB and JNK. Utilizing a novel set of A20 mutants in NF‐κB and AP‐1‐driven reporter systems, we discovered the ZnF7 domain is crucial for negative regulatory capacity, while deubiquitinase activity is dispensable. Successful inactivation of A20 in human primary effector T cells congruently conferred sustained NF‐κB and JNK signaling, including enhanced upregulation of activation markers, and increased secretion of several cytokines including IL‐9. Finally, loss of A20 in primary human T cells resulted in decreased sensitivity to restimulation‐induced cell death and increased sensitivity to cytokine withdrawal‐induced death. These findings demonstrate the importance of A20 in maintaining T‐cell homeostasis via negative regulation of both NF‐κB and JNK signaling.
Romantic Relationships as a Source of Significance
Authors: Contu Federico , Kruglanski Arie W. , Ellenberg Molly , Yu Huixian , Lemay Edward P. , Pierro Antonio 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTDrawing on significance quest theory and its derived model of romantic relationships, we demonstrated that perceiving romantic partners as having socially valued qualities (partners’ merit) and as admiring and caring (partners’ appreciation) enhanced actors’ significance gained through the romantic relationship which, in turn, increased the likelihood to enter (Studies 1A and 1B) and maintain (Study 2) romantic relationships. Further, Study 3 demonstrated that significance gained through romantic relationships and inclusion of the other in the self were independently associated with romantic partners’ merit and appreciation and the likelihood of maintaining romantic relationships. Finally, Study 4 showed that people experiencing feelings of significance loss were more sensitive to their partners’ merit and appreciation features. Findings are compared with the rich social psychological literature on romantic relationships and future directions are outlined.
Energy and enviro‐economic (3E) assessment of greenhouse solar dryer (GHSD) for drying and quality evaluation of medicinal Ocimum sanctum leaves: A sustainable path for preservation
Authors: Dhande Amol , Agarwal Madhu , Agarwal Ghanshyam Das 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThis article presents an experimental analysis of greenhouse solar dryer (GHSD) under natural and forced convection for shelf storage of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) leaves, and the obtained results are compared with conventional open sun drying and shade drying to determine the optimal drying method. The GHSD, being capable of raising the interior temperature 15–25 °C higher than the ambient temperature, took only 2.5 and 2.0 h for drying of 100 gm Tulsi under natural and forced convection mode compared to 5.0 and 7.0 h in open sun and shade drying, respectively. The peak drying rate under natural and forced convection GHSD drying was 0.57 and 0.70 gm of water per gram of dry solid, while dryer efficiencies were estimated as 14% and 16%, respectively. The findings revealed a reduction in drying time by 50% and 60% compared to open sun drying, and by 64% and 71% compared to shade drying under natural and forced convection, respectively. The calculated energy payback time (EPBT) was 0.78 years with earned carbon credit of US$ 60.22 for 10 years of intended life span while the economic payback period was 1.3 years associated with potential saving of Rs 1,11,916. In quality evaluation, total phenolic and flavonoid content (73.39 mg GAE/g and 5.09 mg QE/g) along with antioxidant potential (IC50 value: 55.09 μg/mL) have been recorded higher for the leaves dried in GHSD compared to open sun drying. The findings established a sustainable, eco‐friendly and economical path for the blooming herbal medicine industry.Practical applicationGreenhouse solar dryer is an eco‐friendly, sustainable, clean and hygienic way to dry herbs and medicinal plants. The greenhouse solar dryer can shorten the drying time by 50%–60% compared to natural stand in the sun (OSD), improve the quality of dried herbs and medicinal plants, and reduce the decay rate of the dried products. These leaves can be best suited for Ayurveda medicine industries for herbal powder (Churna). Being economically advantageous, greenhouse solar dryers improve the shelf life of the dried leaves, reduce their density, and lower transportation costs, boosting farmers' income in herbal farming and nutritional security.
The ripple effects of climate change on agricultural sustainability and food security in Africa
Authors: Onyeaka Helen , Nwauzoma Uju M. , Akinsemolu Adenike A. , Tamasiga Phemelo , Duan Keru , Al‐Sharify Zainab T. , Siyanbola Kehinde Favour 
Published: October 2024

AbstractClimate change results in lower agricultural outputs, disruption of food supply chains, and widening of the social gap between poor and rich in developing countries, with more vulnerable groups being pushed into untold poverty. This review aims to investigate the consequences of climate change on food insecurity in Africa in the context of environmental degradation. This review emphasizes the complexity of demands on food security systems due to changing climatic conditions under the four pillars (availability, accessibility, utilization, and stability). This review demonstrated the susceptibility of farm production to changes in temperature, precipitation, and weather patterns generated by climate change. In addition, this review investigated the factors shaping food insecurity, such as increasing population growth, poverty, inadequate early warning systems, and weak agricultural infrastructure. Furthermore, the review points out how climate change affects food prices and availability and the widening income gap, potentially leading to social unrest and political instability in Africa. Vulnerable populations, including impoverished, elderly, and physically challenged individuals, are at increased risk due to climate‐related health impacts. Women who face gender inequalities and socioeconomic limitations are particularly susceptible. We posit that there is a need for comprehensive strategies that address health disparities and consider vulnerable subgroups within society alongside broader measures to enhance food security in the face of climate change.
Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production Using TiO2‐based Catalysts: A Review
Authors: Bhom Fahima , Isa Yusuf Makarfi 
Published: October 2024

AbstractPhotocatalytic water splitting is an environmentally friendly hydrogen production method that uses abundant renewable resources such as water and sunlight. While Titanium dioxide (TiO2) photocatalyst exhibits excellent properties, its high band gap limits absorption to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, resulting in low photo conversion efficiency. This review explores various modification techniques aimed at enhancing the efficiency of TiO2 under visible light irradiation. Factors influencing the photocatalytic water splitting reaction, such as catalyst structure, morphology, band gap, sacrificial reagents, light intensity, temperature, and potential of Hydrogen (pH) are examined. This review also summarizes different catalyst synthesis methods, and types of photocatalytic reactors, and provides insights into quantum yield. Finally, the review addresses the challenges and future outlook of photocatalytic water splitting.
New Insight into Mercury Removal from Fish Meat Using a Single‐Component Solution Containing cysteine
Authors: Strachowski Przemysław , Mandava Geeta , Lundqvist Johan , Bordes Romain , Abdollahi Mehdi 
Published: October 2024

AbstractA novel approach for reducing mercury content in fish meat during post‐packaging storage is developed to extend the margin of their safe consumption. It involves employing a single‐component aqueous medium containing cysteine, as the active agent responsible for displacing mercury from fish proteins and its stabilization in the medium without the need for pH adjustments. The mercury removal efficiency depends on the cysteine concentration and its ratio to fish muscle. Using 1.2 wt% cysteine enables a reduction of mercury in canned Albacore tuna by 25–35%, depending on the fish product type and the exposure time of up to 2 weeks. The potential for the successful application of the developed method in active food packaging solutions is studied for the simultaneous or subsequent purification of the extraction solution through adsorption. Using thiolated silica could potentially enable the extraction process but it is shown that the presence of cysteine significantly hinders the adsorption.
Protein kinase R induced by type I interferons is a main regulator of reactive microglia in Zika virus infection
Authors: Bortolin Violaine , Mansuroglu Zeyni , Conquet Laurine , Calcagno Gaetano , Lambert Fanny , Marin‐Obando Jose Pablo , Segrt Helena , Savino Mary , Menidjel Reyene , Souès Sylvie , Buée Luc , Niedergang Florence , Galas Marie‐Christine , Montagutelli Xavier , Bonnefoy Eliette 
Published: October 2024

AbstractMicroglial cells are the phagocytic cells of the brain that under physiological conditions participate in brain homeostasis and surveillance. Under pathogenic states, microglia undergoes strong morphological and transcriptional changes potentially leading to sustained neuroinflammation, brain damage, and cognitive disorders. Postnatal and adult Zika virus (ZIKV) brain infection is characterized by the induction of reactive microglia associated with brain inflammation, synapse loss and neuropathogenesis. Contrary to neurons, microglial cells are not infected by ZIKV thus raising the question of the mechanism governing ZIKV‐induced microglia's reactivity. In this work, we have questioned the role of exogenous, neuronal type I interferons (IFNs‐I) in regulating ZIKV‐induced microglia's reactivity. Primary cultured microglial cells were either treated with conditioned media from ZIKV‐infected mature neurons or co‐cultured with ZIKV‐infected neurons. Using either an antibody directed against the IFNAR receptor that neutralizes the IFNs‐I response or Ifnar−/−microglial cells, we demonstrate that IFNs‐I produced by ZIKV‐infected neurons are the main regulators of the phagocytic capacity and the pro‐inflammatory gene expression profile of reactive, non‐infected microglial cells. We identify protein kinase R (PKR), whose expression is activated by IFNs‐I, as a major regulator of the phagocytic capacity, pro‐inflammatory response, and morphological changes of microglia induced by IFNs‐I while up‐regulating STAT1 phosphorylation and IRF1 expression. Results obtained herein in vitro with primary cultured cells and in vivo in ZIKV‐infected adult immunocompetent mice, unravel a role for IFNs‐I and PKR in directly regulating microglia's reactivity that could be at work in other infectious and non‐infectious brain pathologies.
Endogenous histidine peptides are physiological antioxidants that prevent oligodendrocyte cell death and myelin loss in vivo
Authors: Sajrawi Clara , Odeh Maali , Tiwari Akshay K. , Agranovich Bella , Abramovich Ifat , Zubedat Salman , Saar Galit , Shaulov Lihi , Avital Avi , Reznik Dan , Benhar Moran , Radzishevsky Inna , Engelender Simone , Wolosker Herman 
Published: October 2024

AbstractHistidine dipeptides (HDs) are synthesized in brain oligodendrocytes by carnosine synthase (carns1), but their role is unknown. Using metabolomics and in vivo experiments with both constitutive and oligodendrocyte‐selective carns1‐KO mouse models, we found that HDs are critical for oligodendrocyte survival and protect against oxidative stress. Carns1‐KO mouse models had lower numbers of mature oligodendrocytes, increased lipid peroxidation, and behavioral changes. Cuprizone administration, which increases reactive oxygen species in vivo, resulted in higher oligodendrocyte death, demyelination, axonal alterations, and oxidative damage in the corpus callosum of carns1‐KO mice. Gliosis and oxidative damage by cuprizone were prevented by pretreatment with the antioxidant N‐acetylcysteine. NADPH levels were increased threefold in the brains of carns1‐KO mice as an antioxidant response to oxidative stress through acceleration of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP). This was due to overexpression of glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase, the rate‐limiting enzyme of the PPP. Likewise, expression of NAD kinase, the biosynthetic enzyme for NADP+, and NAMPT, which replenishes the NAD+ pool, was higher in carns1‐KO mice brains than in controls. Our observations suggest that HDs cell‐autonomously protect oligodendrocytes from oxidative stress, with implications for demyelinating diseases.
Benefits of Bedside Open Tracheostomy: A Safe and Cost‐Effective Alternative to the Operating Room
Authors: Winchester Arianna , Strum David , Saeedi Arman , Bhatt Nupur , Chow Michael , Mir Ghayoour , Jacobson Adam 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTIntroductionTracheostomy is a commonly performed procedure in Otolaryngology and can be performed in different settings. We evaluate patient characteristics and cost efficacy of tracheostomy at the bedside versus operating room (OR).Materials and MethodsRetrospective chart review was performed for adult intensive care unit (ICU) patients who underwent tracheostomy from 2020 to 2023. Data and cost of procedures were analyzed using descriptive statistics.ResultsOne hundred and sixty‐five patients were included. One hundred and thirty‐four (81.2%) patients underwent bedside tracheostomy. Age, sex, and BMI were not significantly different. Average time from consult to procedure and operative time was significantly shorter (p = 0.03; 0.008). There were no differences in postoperative complications, 30‐day mortality, ICU length of stay (LOS), or overall LOS. Tracheostomy at the bedside offered a 73.1% cost reduction compared with performed in the OR.ConclusionAdvantages of bedside tracheostomy include decreased operative time, time from consult to procedure, and cost reduction for the hospital system. We advocate for consideration of bedside tracheostomy when appropriate.Level of Evidence4.
Anxiety and depression in cancer patients and survivors in the context of restrictions in contact and oncological care during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Doege Daniela , Frick Julien , Eckford Rachel D. , Koch‐Gallenkamp Lena , Schlander Michael ,   Baden‐Württemberg Cancer Registry, Arndt Volker 
Published: October 2024

AbstractTreatment modifications and contact restrictions were common during the COVID‐19 pandemic and can be stressors for mental health. There is a lack of studies assessing pandemic‐related risk factors for anxiety and depression of cancer patients and survivors systematically in multifactorial models. A total of 2391 participants, mean age 65.5 years, ≤5 years post‐diagnosis of either lung, prostate, breast, colorectal cancer, or leukemia/lymphoma, were recruited in 2021 via the Baden‐Württemberg Cancer Registry, Germany. Sociodemographic information, pandemic‐related treatment modifications, contact restrictions, and anxiety/depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, HADS) were assessed via self‐administered questionnaire. Clinical information (diagnosis, stage, and treatment information) was obtained from the cancer registry. Overall, 22% of participants reported oncological care modifications due to COVID‐19, mostly in follow‐up care and rehabilitation. Modifications of active cancer treatment were reported by 5.8%. Among those, 50.5% had subclinical anxiety and 55.4% subclinical depression (vs. 37.4% and 45.4%, respectively, for unchanged active treatment). Age <60 years, female sex, lung cancer, low income, and contact restrictions to peer support groups or physicians were identified as independent risk factors for anxiety. Risk factors for depression were lung cancer (both sexes), leukemia/lymphoma (females), recurrence or palliative treatment, living alone, low income, and contact restrictions to relatives, physicians, or caregivers. The study demonstrates that changes in active cancer treatment and contact restrictions are associated with impaired mental well‐being. The psychological consequences of treatment changes and the importance for cancer patients to maintain regular contact with their physicians should be considered in future responses to threats to public health.
Beyond borders: The global impact of violating reproductive human rights
Authors: Sridhar Aparna , Koch Mikaela R. , Kasliwal Asha , Morris Jessica L. , Gil Laura , Purandare Nikhil , Diaz Ivonne 
Published: October 2024

AbstractA fundamental component of the basic right to health is the right to sexual health, encompassing an individual's right to decide freely on matters of sexual and reproductive health without discrimination. Provision of these rights is inextricably linked with a wide range of other internationally agreed upon human rights, including the right to information, participation, and equality. Evidence has shown that provision of these rights not only improves maternal and neonatal health, but also healthcare worker safety and the provision of a vast array of critical and necessary medical care. And yet, too often—and with increasing frequency—sexual and reproductive rights are being violated worldwide, with rising taboos, stigma, and discrimination, particularly within abortion, contraception, and fertility care. FIGO strongly supports comprehensive, equitable, and accessible sexual and reproductive health care for all individuals, recognizing that these rights are essential components of global health and fundamental human rights. This includes a particular emphasis on special populations, healthcare workers, and women and girls in crisis zones. FIGO encourages its member societies to deliver comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care, advocate for coverage for sexual and reproductive health care, become involved in analyzing barriers to access within health systems, and provide nonjudgemental, confidential, person‐centered care.