bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Advancing Age and the rs6265 BDNF SNP are Permissive
to Graft-induced Dyskinesias in Parkinsonian Rats
Authors: Steece-Collier Kathy , Mercado Natosha , Szarowicz Carlye , Stancati Jennifer , Sortwell Caryl , Boezwinkle Samuel , Collier Timothy , Caulfield Margaret 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The rs6265 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the gene for brain-derived neurotrophic factor is a common variant that alters therapeutic outcomes for individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD). We previously investigated the effects of this SNP on the experimental therapeutic approach of neural grafting, demonstrating that young adult parkinsonian rats carrying the variant Met allele exhibited enhanced graft function compared to wild-type rats, and also exclusively developed aberrant graft-induced dyskinesias (GID). Aging is the primary risk factor for PD and reduces graft efficacy. Here we investigated whether aging interacts with this SNP to further alter cell transplantation outcomes. We hypothesized that aging would dampen enhancement of graft function associated with this genetic variant and exacerbate GID in all grafted subjects. Unexpectedly, beneficial graft function was maintained in aged rs6265 subjects. However, aging was permissive to GID induction, regardless of genotype, with the greatest incidence and severity found in rs6265 expressing animals.
Awareness and Perception of the Traditional Methods of Stroke Management Among Stroke Survivors in Selected Health Facilities and Traditional Centers-A Mixed Method Study
Authors: Okonkwo Uchenna Prosper , Osuya Daniel Onyebuchukwu , Ihegihu Ebere Yvonne , Chukwuemeka Uchechukwu Martha , Amaechi Ifeoma Adaigwe , Akobundu Uzoamaka Nwakego , Ani Nnaemeka Charles 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: Traditional methods of stroke management is becoming increasingly popular in sub Saharan Africa involving a wide range of practices.
Aims and objectives: To determine the level of awareness and perception of the traditional methods of stroke management among stroke survivors in Anambra State.
Methods: This study was a Mixed-method embedded design involving 106 stroke survivors recruited from selected health facilities and traditional stroke management centers in Anambra State. A Self-developed and validated research instrument on awareness and perception of traditional methods of stroke management among stroke survivors was used to collect quantitative data while a structured interview guide was used to collect qualitative data. Data was summarized using descriptive statistics of mean, frequency, and standard deviation, while the relationship between the sociodemographic variables and the study variables was analyzed using inferential statistics of the Chi-square test at an α level of 0.05. Thematic analysis was used for qualitative data.
Results: The participants had high awareness 51 (48.1%) and high perception 85 (80.2%) of traditional methods of stroke management. There was a statistically significant association between awareness of traditional methods of stroke management and gender (X2=7.9, p=0.019). Thematic analysis showed an overall high awareness and perception of the traditional method of management.
Conclusion: The study showed high awareness and perception of the traditional methods of stroke management from both the quantitative and qualitative results.
Exploring the Geological and Climatic Influences on Land Subsidence in Joshimath
Authors: Bhatla R. , Raj Deepak Kumar , Singh Richa 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The town of Joshimath, situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand and is located in a fragile Himalayan ecosystem which is highly prone to land subsidence due to its geological features. This study evaluates the climatic factors driving the subsidence problem in Joshimath by analysing rainfall data and geological data. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) analysis for the years 2000, 2011, and 2022 revealed a declining trend in vegetation cover over time, indicating deforestation which suggests a reduction in soil-binding capacity due to the absence of tree and plant roots acting as anchors. The Land Use Land Cover (LULC) map for 2022 further substantiated this observation, with 35.8% of the area classified as rangeland, implying a lack of soil-binding vegetation cover. Rainfall data analysis unveiled an increasing trend in heavy precipitation events, particularly during the monsoon months (June-September). The frequency and intensity of these heavy downpours have escalated in recent years, contributing to soil erosion, water accumulation, and diminished soil stability. The combination of deforestation, heavy rainfall, and reduced soil-binding capacity has created a perfect storm for land subsidence in Joshimath. This research sheds light on the critical role of climatic factors, particularly changes in precipitation patterns and vegetation cover, in facilitating land subsidence in the ecologically sensitive Joshimath region. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies, implementing sustainable land management practices, and ensuring the long-term stability of this Himalayan area.
Systems biology approach for enhancing limonene yield by re-engineering Escherichia coli
Authors: Selvarajoo Kumar , Khanijou Jasmeet , Hee Yan Ting , Scipion Clement , Chen Xixian 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Limonene is a valuable monoterpene utilised in biofuel, pharmaceutical, material science, food and beverage industries. Recently, microorganisms, such as engineered Escherichia coli, have emerged as potential alternatives for limonene production in the laboratory. However, there are general issues such as low enzyme abundance or activities, and regulatory feedback/forward inhibition resulting in reduced yields. To better understand the underlying metabolism, both mechanistically and dynamically, here we adopted a systems biology approach for cell cultures of engineered E. coli strain K-12 MG1655 producing limonene. Firstly, we generated time-series intra- and extra-cellular targeted metabolomics data and, secondly, developed a dynamic model based on enzyme dynamics to interpret the data. The initial wild-type model tracked native metabolic networks such as the glycolytic, tricarboxylic acid cycle, mixed fermentation, and deoxyxylulose 5-phosphate pathway, as well as the engineered mevalonate pathway. After several iterations of model fitting with experimental profiles, which also included 13C tracer studies, we utilised the finalised model to perform in silico knockouts (KOs) of all enzymes in the model to identify crucial bottleneck(s) for optimal limonene yields. The simulations indicated that the suppression of ALDH/ADH (aldehyde dehydrogenase/alcohol dehydrogenase) and LDH (lactate dehydrogenase), and the enhancement of HK (hexokinase) would increase limonene yields. These results were experimentally confirmed where ALDH-ADH and LDH KOs produced 8- to 11-fold enhancements, while HK overexpression resulted in an 8-fold increase in limonene yield. We believe that our systems biology approach can be extended to study other microbes for re-engineering strains for optimal target compound production.
Influence of turning parameters on residual stresses and roughness of 42CrMo4+QT
Authors: Salamanca Diego Díaz , Muñiz-Calvente Miguel , Ebrahimzadeh Pejman , Llavori Iñigo , Zabala Alaitz , Pando Pablo , Álvarez Carlos Suárez , Fernández-Pariente Inés , Larrañaga Miren , Papuga Jan 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Residual stress and surface roughness have been recognized to play a critical role in the fatigue strength of metal components. Machining processes can induce different roughness and residual stress conditions depending on the parameters used in the process. Therefore, it is essential to develop knowledge that helps to predict the residual stresses and roughness that would be obtained from different machining conditions. The main aim of this work is to establish two phenomenological models to accurately predict residual stress and roughness values on specimens turned from 42CrMo4+QT. The models are derived on data of 4 process variables: (a) insert tip radius; (b) feed rate; (c) cutting speed; and (d) depth of cut. For this purpose, a wide experimental campaign has been developed, which includes the machining of 68 specimens under various cutting scenarios, and their subsequent measurement of residual stresses and roughness. Once the experimental data were obtained, the response surface method based on the central composite design was used to fit the models, obtaining a correlation index higher than 0.9 in both cases. In this article, it is concluded that feed rate and insert radius have a greater effect on the residual stress and roughness obtained, while cutting speed and depth of cut have a lesser impact on the results. It is hoped that the findings will establish a groundwork for the machining of this material type, ensuring controlled conditions of residual stress and roughness.
Significance of Laryngo-tracheal flap to reconstruct the defect and management of pharyngoesophageal stenosis after resection of the hypopharyngeal carcinoma with cervical esophagus involvement
Authors: qiyong qian , qinying wang 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

There are many ways to solve hypopharyngeal defection, such as use pectoralis major, clavicle epithelial flap, or free flap repair (e. g. forearm free flap), gastric pull-up and so on to reconstruct cervical esophagus. In the study, we investigate cervical esophageal reconstruction by means of laryngo-tracheal flap and the management of postoperative pharyngoesophageal stenosis after resection of hypopharyngeal carcinoma with cervical esophageal involvement. All 14 cases had good swallowing reflex, fed on normal diet free of feeding tube and no gastric reflux. With a follow-up of 3-10 years, there was no recurrence in 9 patients, 3 patients had metastases in the neck, 1 patient had metastases in the lung and 1 patient had thoracic esophageal carcinoma with hepatic metastasis arid gave up further treatment. Among the 14 patients, one patient developed pharyngocutaneous fistula, and the remaining patients recovered well. Two patients with pharyngoesophageal stenosis causing feeding difficulties were given nasogastric tube nasal feeding and urinary catheter dilation after scar tissue was removed by coblator plasma surgery at the stenosis and were fed to the nasogastric tube for 1-3 months. Accordingly, using laryngo-tracheal flap to reconstruct cervical esophagus after resection of hypopharyngeal carcinoma with cervical esophageal involvement is a recommendable method that is simple, convenient, with high success rate and low complications (complications are mainly pharyngocutaneous fistula and pharyngoesophageal stenosis), which can be effectively used for the repair of postoperative defects of hypopharyngeal cancer. The disadvantage is that the throat is sacrificed and insufficient for the large defect tissue. Coblator plasma surgery and urinary catheter dilation can effectively handle the problem of eating difficulties in patients with postoperative pharyngoesophageal stenosis.
Discordance of HER2-low Status between Breast Primary and Distant Metastases with Clinical-pathological Correlation
Authors: Yang Ellen , D’Alfonso Timothy , Morrow Monica , Brogi Edi , Wen Hannah 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Breast cancer with HER2 immunohistochemistry (IHC) 1+ or 2+ with negative in situ hybridization (ISH) (HER2-low) can now be targeted by HER2 antibody drug conjugates. We set out to compare HER2 status between matched primary invasive breast carcinoma (IBC) and distant metastases (DM) with clinical-pathological correlation, with specific interest in HER2-low.

Methods
Biomarker studies and clinical-pathological features of primary IBC with matched DM diagnosed between 2021-2022 were retrospectively analyzed. HER2 status was assessed per 2023 ASCO/CAP guidelines for IHC (Ventana, 4B5) and ISH (IQFISH pharmDX, DAKO). Bilateral breast primaries were excluded. HER2 IHC 0 to 1+ were reassessed.

Results
147 cases of primary IBC with matched DM were identified (Table 1). Biomarkers were performed on core biopsy (n=74) and resection (n=73). 126 cases (86%) were initially classified as “HER2 negative”; of these 67 (46%) were reclassified as HER2-low. Patients with HER2 positive primaries were younger (p=0.01) and had an increased incidence of micropapillary carcinoma (p=0.02). HER2-low primaries also had increased incidence of micropapillary carcinoma (p=0.02) and estrogen receptor (ER) positivity (p=0.02) comparing to HER2 0. 169 matched DM cases excluding bone metastasis were identified (range of 1-7 metastases per IBC). The most common sites of metastases were liver (50/169, 30%), lung (36/169; 21%), distant lymph node (26/169, 15%). 138 DM cases (82%) were previously classified as “HER2 negative”, and 62 (37%) were reclassified as HER2-low. Like HER2-low primaries, HER2-low metastases were frequently ER positive (52/62; 84%) (p=0.02). Brain metastases were more frequently HER2 positive (5/32; 16%) (p=0.04). Comparing HER2 status in matched primaries and DM, HER2 status was discordant in 62 cases (37%). Most changes occurred from HER2-low to HER2 0 (33/169, 20 %), HER2 0 to HER2-low (17/169, 10%), and HER2-low to positive (10/169, 6%). All HER2-low to HER2 0 changes were HER2 1+ to 0. In 30 patients with multiple DM sites (47 cases), HER2 status among different DM samples was discordant in 16 patients (53%), mostly from HER2-low to HER2 0 (16/47, 34 %).

Conclusion
Significant proportion of previous “HER2 negative” primaries and DM cases are reclassified as HER2-low. Discordant HER2 status between IBC primary and metastasis and between different DM sites demonstrated tumor heterogeneity and highlights the need for HER2 retesting in distant metastasis.
Comparative analysis of physiological and biochemical responses to salt-stress reveals key mechanisms of salt-tolerance in some Saudi Wheat Cultivars
Authors: Alyahya Norah , Taybi Tahar 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) is one of the most essential staple food crops since thousands of years with a massive economic importance worldwide. Wheat has been widely considered to be a moderately salt tolerant plant and its tolerance and responses to salinity stress vary among different tissues and cultivars. This study was conducted to investigate the impact of salt stress on growth and yield of three Saudi bread wheat cultivars, Najran, Mebiah and Qiadh, and characterize the differential responses of the roots and shoots to reveal different underlying mechanisms for salt tolerance. One-month old plants grown under control and salinity conditions were harvested to measure growth parameters (including fresh weight, dry weight and plant length), biochemical response (i.e. proline, soluble sugars, starch and organic acids contents) and antioxidant activity (phenolics content). A distinctive variation was observed between the three cultivars, Najran was the most tolerant to salt stress while Qiadh was the most susceptible cultivar. Under salt stress, a dramatic decline in growth parameters was noticed across all cultivars however, Qiadh exhibited the most conspicuous reduction in growth as well as in yield. In contrast, a pronounced increase of metabolite contents was shown in the three cultivars under salinity stress and was different not only between these cultivars but also between root and shoot tissues. The obtained results confirm that different wheat cultivars employ various mechanisms to alleviate the harmful effects of salt stress. The diversity in salt stress responses among different wheat cultivars can offer a promising avenue for enhancing crop productivity. In this study, the salt-tolerant Najran cultivar can serve as genetic source for breeding programs aimed at developing new varieties with enhanced salt tolerance.
Online pain neuroscience education and graded exposure to movement in breast cancer survivors: Randomised controlled trial
Authors: Martínez-Miranda Patricia , Jiménez-Rejano José Jesús , Muñoz-Fernández María Jesús , García-Muñoz Cristina , Casuso-Holgado María Jesús 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of an online, person-centred programme combining pain neuroscience education (PNE) and graded exposure to movement (GEM) for quality of life improvement in breast cancer survivors.
Methods: This single-blind randomised controlled trial included a sample of 49 breast cancer survivors who were randomly assigned to two groups (experimental: n = 22 and control: n = 27). The experimental group received a 12-week online programme based on pain neuroscience education and therapeutic yoga as gradual exposure to movement, while the control group continued with their usual care. The primary outcome was quality of life (FACT –B+4); the secondary outcomes were related to the experience of chronic pain ( pain intensity and pain interference,catastrophizing, pain self-efficacy, kinesiophobia and fear avoidance behaviours). All variables were assessed at 4 time points. For data analysis, ANOVA (2x4) analysis of variance was used (95% CI).
Results: 36 participants were included in the analysis (control group: 22; experimental group: 14). A significant time*group effect was observed in favour of the experimental group regarding the global quality of life measure (p = 0.010, ηp2 = 0,124). Significant between-groups differences in favour of the experimental group were observed for pain intensity and pain interference, catastrophizing and pain self-efficacy. Except for pain interference, these differences persisted at follow-up.
Conclusions: An online intervention based on PNE and GEM seems to be effective for the improvement of quality of life and chronic pain in breast cancer survivors. However, due to the study limitations further research is needed.
Trial record: NCT04965909 (26/06/2021).
Transcriptomic analysis of thermotolerant Artemia franciscana populations shows that thermal adaptation affects expression and regulation of metabolism-, stress-, and immune-related genes
Authors: Junprung Wisarut , Nanakorn Zittipong , Norouzitallab Parisa , Supungul Premruethai , Vanrompay Daisy , Bossier Peter , Tassanakajon Anchalee 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Brine shrimp Artemia franciscana is a commercially important species in aquaculture and is well adapted to harsh environmental conditions. In this study, an A. franciscana population selectively bred for induced thermotolerance over 12 generations (TF12) was subjected to transcriptomic analysis relative to the non-selective population (CF12) to determine the effect of selective breeding for induced thermotolerance (SITT). The transcriptomic response of CF12 to non-lethal heat stress (NLHS) from ITT within one generation was also investigated. A total of 232 and 218 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were upregulated and downregulated in TF12, respectively, whereas fewer DEGs were upregulated (114) and downregulated (180) in CF12 exposed to NLHS, suggesting a more complex mechanism of thermal adaptation in SITT than in ITT. The TF12 population exhibited a reduction in immune processes as indicated by the downregulation of several pattern-recognition receptors. Conversely, stress protein genes such as those of heat shock proteins (HSPs) and of antioxidant enzymes and genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, were highly upregulated. ITT downregulated immune-related and growth-related genes, whereas genes involved in energy production and electron carrier activity were upregulated. Our findings suggest possible immunological and physiological mechanisms and molecular pathways involved in adaptation of A. franciscana to thermal stress.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Activation of Redox Stress Pathways and Detoxification Mechanisms in Smoke-exposed Merlot Grape (Vitis Vinifera) Berries
Authors: Hewitt Seanna , Aragon Mackenzie , Layton P. , Collins Thomas S , Dhingra Amit 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

A significant consequence of climate change is the rising incidence of wildfires. When wildfires occur close to wine grape (Vitis vinifera) production areas, smoke-derived volatile phenolic compounds make their way into the grape berries, negatively affecting the flavor and aroma profile of the resulting wine and compromising the production value of entire vineyards. Evidence for the permeation of smoke-associated compounds into grape berries has been provided through metabolomics; however, the basis for grapevines’ response to smoke at the gene expression level has not been investigated in detail. To address this knowledge gap, we employed time-course RNA sequencing to observe gene expression-level changes in grape berries in response to smoke exposure. Significant increases in gene expression (and enrichment of gene ontologies) associated with detoxification of reactive compounds, cell wall fortification, and vacuolar activity was observed in response to smoke. These findings suggest that the accumulation of volatile phenols from smoke exposure activates redox stress pathways and detoxification mechanisms that render smoke-derived compounds less reactive. The results of this work lend a better understanding of the molecular basis for grapevines’ response to smoke and provide insight into the origins of smoke-taint-associated flavor and aroma attributes in wine produced from smoke-exposed grapes.
Availability, Perceived Need and Satisfaction for School Nurses in Spain: A Cross-Sectional Study Involving the School Community
Authors: Zafra-Agea José Antonio , Pérez Tamara Domingo , Lima-Serrano Marta , Vargas-Martinez Ana Magdalena , Soler-Pardo Engracia , Torralbas-Ortega Jordi , Cillero Itziar Hoyos 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: School nursing in Spain faces crucial challenges that require immediate attention. This is the first national study developed by the School Nursing Observatory Research Group of the General Council of Nursing (GCN) in Spain on the school nurse (SN) professional profile and their availability at schools. The objective is to understand the social-labor situation, as well as the availability, perceived need, and satisfaction of the school community with the SN, as well as the factors related to these variables.
Methods: Cross-sectional study using three ad hoc designed and validated questionnaires through a digital platform. Participants included 376 SNs, 1193 teachers and school principals, and 582 mothers, fathers, and representatives of parents’ associations (PAs). Descriptive and bivariate statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS v.28.
Results: Most SNs work in a single school in exclusive, mainly employed by the education department or privately funded special education schools, in urban areas and schools with a high number of students. Both school staff and PAs perceive a high need of and satisfaction with SNs. According to school staff, SNs are more in private and subsidized schools and, according to PAs, in schools where a child has a disease. In schools where there are children with certain diseases, according to PAs, a greater need for a SN was perceived. And the schools staff also found SNs especially necessary in schools located in disadvantage areas.
Conclusions: Despite the high degree of satisfaction with the SN, there are significant deficiencies in its distribution in Spain that prevent reaching international quality standards. It is necessary to increase the availability of this professional, especially under exclusivity, with special attention to rural, publicly funded, and disadvantage areas. This would help address inequities in school health and meet the perceived need of the school community, thus contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).