bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Associations between childbirth, gang exposure and substance use among young women in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Browne Felicia A. , Carney Tara , Myers Bronwyn , Bonner Courtney Peasant , Wechsberg Wendee M. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe prevalence and influence of gangs on adolescents and young adults remain a concern in Western Cape, South Africa—particularly as they have one of the largest gang presence. While less attention has been focused on young women, there is a need to elucidate the relationship between gang exposure and health behaviors, such substance use, in addition to understanding whether becoming a caregiver impacts this relationship. This study uses baseline data from 496 participants enrolled in a NIDA-funded R01 trial that recruited young women aged 16 to 19 who were out of school and reported recent alcohol or other drug use and sexual risk behavior. At enrollment, a risk behavior survey was administered, and urine drug screening was conducted. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine baseline associations between childbirth, a gang exposure index based on eight items, and positive drug screens of the most prevalent drugs in the Western Cape (marijuana, methaqualone, and methamphetamine). At enrollment, approximately 39% of the sample had a positive urine screen for marijuana, 17% for methaqualone, and 11% for methamphetamine. Additionally, 28% had ever given birth. While only 6% reported ever being a member of a gang, most reported exposure to gangs through their physical and social environments. For all three drugs, gang exposure was associated with statistically significantly higher odds of a positive screen. Every one-point increase in the gang exposure index was associated with a 31% increase in the odds of a positive marijuana screen (p < .001), a 26% increase for methaqualone (p = 0.005) and a 37% increase in the odds of a positive methamphetamine screen (p < .001). Ever given birth was associated with lower odds of marijuana use (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 0.63; 95% CI: 0.42–0.96), but it was not associated with methaqualone or methamphetamine use. The findings suggest that exposure to gangs through young women’s social and physical environment is positively associated with drug use. Childbirth was also protective for marijuana use, indicating there may be something unique about this type of drug, such as one’s ability to more easily stop use. Although very few young women reported gang membership, a majority reported some exposure, indicating the need to address how pervasive this exposure is and the potential risk.
A human centred innovative approach based on persona in hereditary angioedema
Authors: Perego Francesca , Zingale Lorenza Chiara , Cesoni Marcelli Azzurra , Ranucci Luca , Rimoldi Lorenzo , Nsanbayeva Nurgul , Natale Maria Rosaria , Dalla Vecchia Laura Adelaide , Gorini Alessandra 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) due to C1-inhibitor deficiency (C1INH) is a rare condition, clinically characterised by recurrent swelling. The unpredictability of attacks affects the patients’ quality of life (QoL). HAE patients and their families have vast unmet physical, psychological, and social needs. A human-centred design (HCD) approach to describing the needs of different user types is to utilise personas, a data-driven narrative tool for communicating user archetypes that capture the individuals’ attitudes, goals, and behaviours. The aim of this study was to create and analyse personas based on HAE patients’ and their caregivers’ interviews. Semi-structured interviews were conducted through anthropological conversations with patients, patient-caregivers (double role of patient and caregiver), and non-affected caregivers. Qualitative and quantitative insights from analyses formed the basis to create personas.

Results
We enrolled 17 subjects: 15 patients (6 of them were patient-caregivers) and 2 non-affected caregivers. The mean age of participants was 50.3 ± 14.4 years. Eight patients were on treatment with prophylactic therapy. The mean percentage score of Angioedema Quality of Life (AE-QoL) for HAE patients was 19.8 ± 12.0. Six personas were identified describing the participants’ personal history, disease management, and needs: four personas referred to patients, one to patient-caregivers, and one non-affected caregiver personas were identified. Across patient personas, the most expressed needs were psychological support and better awareness amongst healthcare professionals. Caregivers, on their side, desired better information about the disease, including the latest therapies, and higher awareness within the community.

Conclusion
A Human Centred Innovative Approach Based on Persona extends beyond the physical symptoms to encompass the psychological and social aspects of the individual's well-being also including the family in the evaluation.
Evaluation of the quality of life among transgender men before and after gender reassignment surgery: a survey from Iran
Authors: Rahimpour Elham , Askary Elham , Alamdarloo Shaghayegh Moradi , Alborzi Saeed , Poordast Tahereh 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Gender dysphoria, characterized by a misalignment between one’s gender identity and assigned sex, propels individuals towards medical interventions like gender reassignment surgery (GRS) to harmonize their bodies with their gender. This process aims to enhance overall quality of life (QoL), functioning, and body image. Recognizing the importance of cultivating a positive body image for transgender individuals navigating societal norms, this narrative highlights the ongoing debate surrounding QoL post-GRS. In response, our study is outlined, aiming to scrutinize QoL and self-image among transgender men post-GRS, offering valuable insights into societal perceptions and psychological well-being in this context.

Method
This cross-sectional survey focused on transgender men aged 15 to 35 who underwent gender reassignment surgery (GRS) in 2018–2022 in Shiraz, Iran. Participants, after passing psychiatric evaluations, completed World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-100) questionnaires pre- and at least one-year post-surgery. The scores of the Brief-WHOQOL questionnaire were evaluated in four domains of physical health, psychological health, social relationships, and environmental health.

Results
A total of 60 individual who underwent GRS completed our questionnaire. The average age of the patients was 24.1 ± 3.8 years. Following GRS, the most increase was observed in the psychological factor (by 25.6%). The increase in score was statistically significant in all subgroups (P < 0.001) after operation. Urban living location had a significant association with higher increase in physical health (P < 0.010), psychological health (P = 0.005), and environmental health (P = 0.012) after GRS. In regards to physical health, the low socioeconomic group had a significantly less physical score improvement in QoL compared to the moderate group (P = 0.024) following GRS. In regards to environmental health, the high socioeconomic groups had significantly higher improvement in QoL compared to the low (P = 0.006) and moderate (P < 0.001) group after operation.

Conclusion
The results demonstrate that GRS brings about improvements across all aspects of QoL. However, this enhancement is less pronounced among patients hailing from low socioeconomic backgrounds and rural areas.
Autophagy-mediated ID1 turnover dictates chemo-resistant fate in ovarian cancer stem cells
Authors: Phadte Pratham , Bishnu Aniketh , Dey Pranay , M Manikandan , Mehrotra Megha , Singh Prerna , Chakrabarty Shritama , Majumdar Rounak , Rekhi Bharat , Patra Malay , De Abhijit , Ray Pritha 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
The mechanisms enabling dynamic shifts between drug-resistant and drug-sensitive states in cancer cells are still underexplored. This study investigated the role of targeted autophagic protein degradation in regulating ovarian cancer stem cell (CSC) fate decisions and chemo-resistance.

Methods
Autophagy levels were compared between CSC-enriched side population (SP) and non-SP cells (NSP) in multiple ovarian cancer cell lines using immunoblotting, immunofluorescence, and transmission electron microscopy. The impact of autophagy modulation on CSC markers and differentiation was assessed by flow cytometry, immunoblotting and qRT-PCR. In silico modeling and co-immunoprecipitation identified ID1 interacting proteins. Pharmacological and genetic approaches along with Annexin-PI assay, ChIP assay, western blotting, qRT-PCR and ICP-MS were used to evaluate effects on cisplatin sensitivity, apoptosis, SLC31A1 expression, promoter binding, and intracellular platinum accumulation in ID1 depleted backdrop. Patient-derived tumor spheroids were analyzed for autophagy and SLC31A1 levels.

Results
Ovarian CSCs exhibited increased basal autophagy compared to non-CSCs. Further autophagy stimulation by serum-starvation and chemical modes triggered proteolysis of the stemness regulator ID1, driving the differentiation of chemo-resistant CSCs into chemo-sensitive non-CSCs. In silico modeling predicted TCF12 as a potent ID1 interactor, which was validated by co-immunoprecipitation. ID1 depletion freed TCF12 to transactivate the cisplatin influx transporter SLC31A1, increasing intracellular cisplatin levels and cytotoxicity. Patient-derived tumor spheroids exhibited a functional association between autophagy, ID1, SLC31A1, and platinum sensitivity.

Conclusions
This study reveals a novel autophagy-ID1-TCF12-SLC31A1 axis where targeted autophagic degradation of ID1 enables rapid remodeling of CSCs to reverse chemo-resistance. Modulating this pathway could counter drug resistance in ovarian cancer.
Comprehensive analysis of flavohemoprotein copy number variation in Giardia intestinalis: exploring links to metronidazole resistance
Authors: Korenková Vlasta , Weisz Filip , Perglerová Aneta , Cacciò Simone M. , Nohýnková Eva , Tůmová Pavla 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Giardiasis, caused by the protozoan parasite Giardia intestinalis, often presents a treatment challenge, particularly in terms of resistance to metronidazole. Despite extensive research, markers for metronidazole resistance have not yet been identified.

Methods
This study analysed 28 clinical samples of G. intestinalis from sub-assemblage AII, characterised by varying responses to metronidazole treatment. We focussed on copy number variation (CNV) of the multi-copy flavohemoprotein gene, analysed using digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) and next generation sequencing (NGS). Additionally, chromosomal ploidy was tested in 18 of these samples. Flavohemoprotein CNV was also assessed in 17 samples from other sub-assemblages.

Results
Analyses revealed variable CNVs of the flavohemoprotein gene among the isolates, with no correlation to clinical metronidazole resistance. Discrepancies in CNVs detected from NGS data were attributed to biases linked to the whole genome amplification. However, dPCR helped to clarify these discrepancies by providing more consistent CNV data. Significant differences in flavohemoprotein CNVs were observed across different G. intestinalis sub-assemblages. Notably, Giardia exhibits a propensity for aneuploidy, contributing to genomic variability within and between sub-assemblages.

Conclusions
The complexity of the clinical metronidazole resistance in Giardia is influenced by multiple genetic factors, including CNVs and aneuploidy. No significant differences in the CNV of the flavohemoprotein gene between isolates from metronidazole-resistant and metronidazole-sensitive cases of giardiasis were found, underscoring the need for further research to identify reliable genetic markers for resistance. We demonstrate that dPCR and NGS are robust methods for analysing CNVs and provide cross-validating results, highlighting their utility in the genetic analyses of this parasite.

Graphical Abstract
Full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing combined with adequate database selection improves the description of Arctic marine prokaryotic communities
Authors: Pascoal Francisco , Duarte Pedro , Assmy Philipp , Costa Rodrigo , Magalhães Catarina 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
High-throughput sequencing of the full-length 16S rRNA gene has improved the taxonomic classification of prokaryotes found in natural environments. However, sequencing of shorter regions from the same gene, like the V4-V5 region, can provide more cost-effective high throughput. It is unclear which approach best describes prokaryotic communities from underexplored environments. In this study, we hypothesize that high-throughput full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing combined with adequate taxonomic databases improves the taxonomic description of prokaryotic communities from underexplored environments in comparison with high-throughput sequencing of a short region of the 16S rRNA gene.

Results
To test our hypothesis, we compared taxonomic profiles of seawater samples from the Arctic Ocean using: full-length and V4-V5 16S rRNA gene sequencing in combination with either the Genome Taxonomy Database (GTDB) or the Silva taxonomy database. Our results show that all combinations of sequencing strategies and taxonomic databases present similar results at higher taxonomic levels. However, at lower taxonomic levels, namely family, genus, and most notably species level, the full-length approach led to higher proportions of Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs) assigned to formally valid taxa. Hence, the best taxonomic description was obtained by the full-length and GTDB combination, which in some cases allowed for the identification of intraspecific diversity of ASVs.

Conclusions
We conclude that coupling high-throughput full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing with GTDB improves the description of microbiome profiling at lower taxonomic ranks. The improvements reported here provide more context for scientists to discuss microbial community dynamics within a solid taxonomic framework in environments like the Arctic Ocean with still underrepresented microbiome sequences in public databases.
Association between foreign agricultural investments and adoption of soil and water conservation practices in Uganda
Authors: Byaruhanga Bruce Michael , Bashaasha Bernard , Turinawe Alice , Nakanwagi Teddy , Tumusiime David 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Objectives
Recently, some developing countries are promoting foreign agricultural investments in Agriculture to exploit currently under-exploited land. Yet, the benefits to recipient countries remains less understood and inconclusive. The study sought to understand the association between proximity to a foreign agricultural investments (FAI) and adoption of soil and water conservation farming methods by smallholder farmers in Uganda.

Methodology
We used cross-sectional data collected from a total of 1,181 smallholder respondents, sampled through a multi-stage random sampling process resulting in three independent samples from South-western, Central and Northern Uganda. Using logistic regression analysis and pooled data, we study the association between proximity to a FAI and other factors that influence the adoption of soil and water conservation farming practices by smallholder farmers in Uganda.

Results
Descriptive results show that at the aggregate level proximity to a FAI, the education level of the farmer and ownership of information and communication assets (radio and mobile phone) are significantly different between adopter and non-adopters of soil and water conservation farming methods in the research area. The econometric findings of the study suggest that proximity to a foreign agricultural investments (FAI) has weak but significant spillovers on soil and water conservation farming practices of smallholder farmers it their vicinity with possible site specific variations that warrant more in-depth investigation. The effect of proximity to FAI on the adoption of soil and water conservation farming practices is complemented by the education level of the farmer and access to means of communication (radio, and in particular mobile phone set) indicating the importance of information and also broader socio-economic conditions.

Recommendation
We recommend policies that enhance increased exposure of smallholder farmers to FAI especially those that help promote rural digital penetration through increased band width, FM radios and affordable data packages.
Revisiting gliomatosis cerebri in adult-type diffuse gliomas: a comprehensive imaging, genomic and clinical analysis
Authors: Shin Ilah , Park Yae Won , Sim Yongsik , Choi Seo Hee , Ahn Sung Soo , Chang Jong Hee , Kim Se Hoon , Lee Seung-Koo , Jain Rajan 
Published: August 2024

AbstractAlthough gliomatosis cerebri (GC) has been removed as an independent tumor type from the WHO classification, its extensive infiltrative pattern may harbor a unique biological behavior. However, the clinical implication of GC in the context of the 2021 WHO classification is yet to be unveiled. This study investigated the incidence, clinicopathologic and imaging correlations, and prognostic implications of GC in adult-type diffuse glioma patients. Retrospective chart and imaging review of 1,211 adult-type diffuse glioma patients from a single institution between 2005 and 2021 was performed. Among 1,211 adult-type diffuse glioma patients, there were 99 (8.2%) patients with GC. The proportion of molecular types significantly differed between patients with and without GC (P = 0.017); IDH-wildtype glioblastoma was more common (77.8% vs. 66.5%), while IDH-mutant astrocytoma (16.2% vs. 16.9%) and oligodendroglioma (6.1% vs. 16.5%) were less common in patients with GC than in those without GC. The presence of contrast enhancement, necrosis, cystic change, hemorrhage, and GC type 2 were independent risk factors for predicting IDH mutation status in GC patients. GC remained as an independent prognostic factor (HR = 1.25, P = 0.031) in IDH-wildtype glioblastoma patients on multivariable analysis, along with clinical, molecular, and surgical factors. Overall, our data suggests that although no longer included as a distinct pathological entity in the WHO classification, recognition of GC may be crucial considering its clinical significance. There is a relatively high incidence of GC in adult-type diffuse gliomas, with different proportion according to molecular types between patients with and without GC. Imaging may preoperatively predict the molecular type in GC patients and may assist clinical decision-making. The prognostic role of GC promotes its recognition in clinical settings.
Recurrent adamantinomatous craniopharyngiomas show MAPK pathway activation, clonal evolution and rare TP53-loss-mediated malignant progression
Authors: Apps John R. , Gonzalez-Meljem Jose Mario , Guiho Romain , Pickles Jessica C. , Prince Eric , Schwalbe Edward , Joshi Nikhil , Stone Thomas J. , Ogunbiyi Olumide , Chalker Jane , Bassey Akang , Otto Georg , Davies Rosalind , Hughes Debbie , Brandner Sebastian , Tan Enrica , Lee Victoria , Hayhurst Caroline , Kline Cassie , Castellano Sergi , Hankinson Todd , Deutschbein Timo , Jacques Thomas S. , Martinez-Barbera Juan Pedro 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe two types of craniopharyngioma, adamantinomatous (ACP) and papillary (PCP), are clinically relevant tumours in children and adults. Although the biology of primary craniopharyngioma is starting to be unravelled, little is known about the biology of recurrence. To fill this gap in knowledge, we have analysed through methylation array, RNA sequencing and pERK1/2 immunohistochemistry a cohort of paired primary and recurrent samples (32 samples from 14 cases of ACP and 4 cases of PCP). We show the presence of copy number alterations and clonal evolution across recurrence in 6 cases of ACP, and analysis of additional whole genome sequencing data from the Children’s Brain Tumour Network confirms chromosomal arm copy number changes in at least 7/67 ACP cases. The activation of the MAPK/ERK pathway, a feature previously shown in primary ACP, is observed in all but one recurrent cases of ACP. The only ACP without MAPK activation is an aggressive case of recurrent malignant human craniopharyngioma harbouring a CTNNB1 mutation and loss of TP53. Providing support for a functional role of this TP53 mutation, we show that Trp53 loss in a murine model of ACP results in aggressive tumours and reduced mouse survival. Finally, we characterise the tumour immune infiltrate showing differences in the cellular composition and spatial distribution between ACP and PCP. Together, these analyses have revealed novel insights into recurrent craniopharyngioma and provided preclinical evidence supporting the evaluation of MAPK pathway inhibitors and immunomodulatory approaches in clinical trials in against recurrent ACP.
PvMYB60 gene, a candidate for drought tolerance improvement in common bean in a climate change context
Authors: Martínez-Barradas Vera , Galbiati Massimo , Barco-Rubio Francisco , Paolo Dario , Espinoza Carmen , Cominelli Eleonora , Arce-Johnson Patricio 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackgroundCommon bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is one of the main nutritional resources in the world, and a low environmental impact source of protein. However, the majority of its cultivation areas are affected by drought and this scenario is only expected to worsen with climate change. Stomatal closure is one of the most important plant responses to drought and the MYB60 transcription factor is among the key elements regulating stomatal aperture. If targeting and mutating theMYB60gene of common bean would be a valuable strategy to establish more drought-tolerant beans was therefore investigated.ResultsTheMYB60gene of common bean, with orthology to the ArabidopsisAtMYB60gene,was found to have conserved regions with MYB60 typical motifs and architecture. Stomata-specific expression ofPvMYB60was further confirmed by q-RT PCR on organs containing stomata, and stomata-enriched leaf fractions. Further, function ofPvMYB60in promoting stomata aperture was confirmed by complementing the defective phenotype of a previously described Arabidopsismyb60-1mutant.ConclusionsOur study finally pointsPvMYB60as a potential target for obtaining more drought-tolerant common beans in the present context of climate change which would further greatly contribute to food security particularly in drought-prone countries.