bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Biallelic variants in LARS1 induce steatosis in developing zebrafish liver via enhanced autophagy
Authors: Inoue Masanori , Sebastian Wulan Apridita , Sonoda Shota , Miyahara Hiroaki , Shimizu Nobuyuki , Shiraishi Hiroshi , Maeda Miwako , Yanagi Kumiko , Kaname Tadashi , Hanada Reiko , Hanada Toshikatsu , Ihara Kenji 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Biallelic pathogenic variants of LARS1 cause infantile liver failure syndrome type 1 (ILFS1), which is characterized by acute hepatic failure with steatosis in infants. LARS functions as a protein associated with mTORC1 and plays a crucial role in amino acid-triggered mTORC1 activation and regulation of autophagy. A previous study demonstrated that larsb-knockout zebrafish exhibit conditions resembling ILFS. However, a comprehensive analysis of larsb-knockout zebrafish has not yet been performed because of early mortality.

Methods
We generated a long-term viable zebrafish model carrying a LARS1 variant identified in an ILFS1 patient (larsb-I451F zebrafish) and analyzed the pathogenesis of the affected liver of ILFS1.

Results
Hepatic dysfunction is most prominent in ILFS1 patients during infancy; correspondingly, the larsb-I451F zebrafish manifested hepatic anomalies during developmental stages. The larsb-I451F zebrafish demonstrates augmented lipid accumulation within the liver during autophagy activation. Inhibition of DGAT1, which converts fatty acids to triacylglycerols, improved lipid droplets in the liver of larsb-I451F zebrafish. Notably, treatment with an autophagy inhibitor ameliorated hepatic lipid accumulation in this model.

Conclusions
Our findings suggested that enhanced autophagy caused by biallelic LARS1 variants contributes to ILFS1-associated hepatic dysfunction. Furthermore, the larsb-I451F zebrafish model, which has a prolonged survival rate compared with the larsb-knockout model, highlights its potential utility as a tool for investigating the pathophysiology of ILFS1-associated liver dysfunction.
Macintosh-style videolaryngoscope use for tracheal intubation in elective surgical patients revisited: a sub-analysis of the 2022 Cochrane review data
Authors: McNarry Alistair F. , Ward Patrick , Silas Ubong , Saunders Rhodri , Saunders Sita J. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe Cochrane systematic review and meta-analysis published in 2022 that compared videolaryngoscopy (VL) with direct laryngoscopy (DL) for facilitating tracheal intubation in adults found that all three types of VL device (Macintosh-style, hyper-angulated and channeled) reduced the risk of failed intubation and increased the likelihood of first-pass success. We report the findings of a subgroup re-analysis of the 2022 Cochrane meta-analysis data focusing on the Macintosh-style VL group. This was undertaken to establish whether sufficient evidence exists to guide airway managers in making purchasing decisions for their local institutions based upon individual device-specific performance. This re-analysis confirmed the superiority of Macintosh-style VL over Macintosh DL in elective surgical patients, with similar efficacy demonstrated between the Macintosh-style VL devices examined. Thus, when selecting which VL device(s) to purchase for their hospital, airway managers decisions are likely to remain focused upon issues such as financial costs, portability, cleaning schedules and previous device experience.
ePRINT: exonuclease assisted mapping of protein-RNA interactions
Authors: Hawkins Sophie , Mondaini Alexandre , Namboori Seema C. , Nguyen Grady G. , Yeo Gene W. , Javed Asif , Bhinge Akshay 
Published: May 2024

AbstractRNA-binding proteins (RBPs) regulate key aspects of RNA processing including alternative splicing, mRNA degradation and localization by physically binding RNA molecules. Current methods to map these interactions, such as CLIP, rely on purifying single proteins at a time. Our new method, ePRINT, maps RBP-RNA interaction networks on a global scale without purifying individual RBPs. ePRINT uses exoribonuclease XRN1 to precisely map the 5′ end of the RBP binding site and uncovers direct and indirect targets of an RBP of interest. Importantly, ePRINT can also uncover RBPs that are differentially activated between cell fate transitions, including neural progenitor differentiation into neurons.
Hematological and plasma profiles and ticks and tick-borne pathogens in wild Formosan black bears (Ursus thibetanus formosanus)
Authors: Tsai Yi-Lun , Wechtaisong Wittawat , Lee Ting-Rong , Chang Chun-Hao , Yu Pin-Huan , Hwang Mei-Hsiu 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
The endangered Formosan black bear (Ursus thibetanus formosanus) is the largest native carnivorous mammal in Taiwan. Diseases, poor management, illegal hunting, and habitat destruction are serious threats to the survival of bear populations. However, studies on the impact of diseases on bear populations are limited. Therefore, this study aimed to establish a database of the hematological and plasma profiles of free-ranging Formosan black bears and investigate the occurrence of ectoparasites, blood parasites, and vector-borne pathogens.

Methods
Formosan black bears were captured in Yushan National Park (YNP) and Daxueshan Forest Recreation Area (DSY) in Taiwan. Blood samples were collected from each bear for hematological analysis and plasma biochemistry using a hematology analyzer. Parasites and pathogens were detected using a thin blood smear with Wright–Giemsa staining and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Additionally, macroscopic ectoparasites were collected from bears to detect blood parasites and other pathogens. Moreover, the relationships between the bear variables (sex, age, and occurrence of parasites or pathogens), ectoparasites, and infectious agents were also analyzed.

Results
In all, 21 wild bears (14 in YNP and 7 in DSY) were captured and released during the satellite tracking studies. Hematological analysis and plasma biochemistry indicated significant differences in white blood cells (WBC), segments, creatine kinase (CK), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels between foot snare and culvert-captured bears. Additionally, there were significant differences in total plasma protein (TPP), creatinine, Ca2+, Mg2+, and K+ levels between male and female bears. Moreover, pathogen-infected bears had significantly higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR; 30 min and 1 h) and globulin levels than uninfected bears. In total, 240 ticks were collected from 13 bears, among which eight adult tick species were identified, including Haemaphysalis flava, Haemaphysalis hystricis, Amblyomma testudinarium, Ixodes ovatus, Dermacentor taiwanensis, Haemaphysalis longicornis, Ixodes acutitarsus, Amblyomma javanense, and nymphs belonging to Haemaphysalis spp. PCR revealed that 13 (61.90%) and 8 (38.10%) bears harbored Hepatozoon ursi and Babesia DNA, respectively. Among the ticks examined, 157 (65.41%) and 128 (53.33%) samples were positive for H. ursi and Babesia, respectively.

Conclusions
To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to establish a database of the hematological and plasma profiles of wild Formosan black bears and investigate ectoparasite infestation and Hepatozoon and Babesia spp. infection. In conclusion, these findings may serve as a reference for monitoring the health and population of locally endangered bears.

Graphical Abstract
Consensus holistic virtual screening for drug discovery: a novel machine learning model approach
Authors: Moshawih Said , Bu Zhen Hui , Goh Hui Poh , Kifli Nurolaini , Lee Lam Hong , Goh Khang Wen , Ming Long Chiau 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn drug discovery, virtual screening is crucial for identifying potential hit compounds. This study aims to present a novel pipeline that employs machine learning models that amalgamates various conventional screening methods. A diverse array of protein targets was selected, and their corresponding datasets were subjected to active/decoy distribution analysis prior to scoring using four distinct methods: QSAR, Pharmacophore, docking, and 2D shape similarity, which were ultimately integrated into a single consensus score. The fine-tuned machine learning models were ranked using the novel formula “w_new”, consensus scores were calculated, and an enrichment study was performed for each target. Distinctively, consensus scoring outperformed other methods in specific protein targets such as PPARG and DPP4, achieving AUC values of 0.90 and 0.84, respectively. Remarkably, this approach consistently prioritized compounds with higher experimental PIC50 values compared to all other screening methodologies. Moreover, the models demonstrated a range of moderate to high performance in terms of R2 values during external validation. In conclusion, this novel workflow consistently delivered superior results, emphasizing the significance of a holistic approach in drug discovery, where both quantitative metrics and active enrichment play pivotal roles in identifying the best virtual screening methodology.Scientific contributionWe presented a novel consensus scoring workflow in virtual screening, merging diverse methods for enhanced compound selection. We also introduced ‘w_new’, a groundbreaking metric that intricately refines machine learning model rankings by weighing various model-specific parameters, revolutionizing their efficacy in drug discovery in addition to other domains.
Graphical Abstract
Relational aggression in romantic relationship: empirical evidence among young female adults in Malaysia
Authors: Kamaluddin Mohammad Rahim , Munusamy Shalini , Sheau Tsuey Chong , Abdullah & Mohd Nor Hilwa 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Aggressive behaviour in romantic relationship is a social problem of great concern. Studies related to the influence of psychosocial factors on relational aggression are still limited. Furthermore, these factors have not been widely studied in the local context, resulting in the issue of relational aggression among young female adults still not being addressed. This study aims to explore whether psychosocial factors such as big five personality traits, adult attachment style and loneliness could predict relational aggression in romantic relationships among young female adults in Malaysia. In addition, this study aims to identify the moderating effect of social support in the relationship between psychosocial factors and relational aggression in romantic relationship.

Methods
A quantitative research approach was used with 424 young female adults in Malaysia aged between 18 and 30 years old (mean age = 24.18) were recruited through multistage sampling design by completing a questionnaire consisting of the Big Five Inventory (BFI), Experiences in Close Relationships Scale II (ECRS-II), Revised UCLA Loneliness Scale, Measure of Relational Aggression and Victimization (MRAV) and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS).

Results
Multiple regression analysis predicted significant relationship between agreeableness personality, loneliness, avoidant attachment style and anxious attachment style with relational aggression in romantic relationships. Hierarchical regression analysis found a significant effect of social support as a moderator between loneliness with relational aggression in romantic relationships.

Conclusions
Thus, the results show that young female adults with low level of agreeableness, high level of loneliness, avoidant attachment style and anxious attachment style are at a higher risk of engaging in relational aggression in romantic relationships. The implication of this study can help in understanding the psychosocial factors that form the basis of relational aggression in romantic relationships. Hence, the gap in knowledge warrants further research.
Associations between perceived occupational stressors and symptoms severity of depression, anxiety and stress among academic faculty: First cross-sectional study from Qatar
Authors: Hammoudi Halat Dalal , Abdel-Rahman Manar E. , Al-Jayyousi Ghadir Fakhri , Malki Ahmed 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Mental health concerns among university faculty are on the rise, with reports of anxiety, depression, and occupational stress, impacting the higher education community. In Qatar, an assessment of faculty mental health has not been previously realized. The objectives of the current study were twofold: Firstly, to evaluate the extent of perceived occupational stress, depression, anxiety, and stress, and secondly, to assess the association among these mental health parameters.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among faculty using an online, self-administered, anonymous, voluntary survey. All faculty were included by sending the survey to their institutional emails. In addition to faculty demographics and general health status, the survey measured perceived stress due to academic job roles using the Faculty Stress Index (FSI) with its five distinct domains, and assessed faculty mental health using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 items (DASS-21). Modified Poisson regression with robust variance was used to assess how FSI influences levels of depression, anxiety, and stress.

Results
A total of 112 faculty responded to the survey. The highest faculty self-perceptions of mental health conditions were for anxiety (63% at least moderate), followed by depression (30% at least moderate), and least for stress (26% at least moderate). The overall mean FSI score was 48.8 ± 29.4; time constraint and rewards and recognition domains scored highest (18.5 ± 11.4 and 13.3 ± 9.3 respectively) while the departmental influence domain scored least (4.8 ± 4.4). Increased risk of at least moderate levels of self-perceived depression and stress were significantly associated with higher FSI score (p˂0.001). Increased risk of at least moderate levels of depression were less likely among faculty aged 50 years and above (p = 0.034), while increased risk of at least moderate levels of anxiety were more likely among faculty from humanities colleges (p = 0.027).

Conclusions
This is the first investigation of university faculty mental health in Qatar, indicating multifactorial perceived occupational stress, associated with higher perceived severity of mental health conditions. These baseline results establish links between specific occupational stressors for faculty and their mental well-being. As such, assessment of mental health conditions, controlling occupational stress, and developing tailored mental health interventions for faculty, are strategic to implement and foster well-being of academics. Further research into mental health of faculty and designing effective interventions that consider their specific stressors and associated factors are warranted.
Reliability and validity of simple Chinese version of grit scale for elementary school students
Authors: Jie Wang , Xinyi Wang , Tao Xin 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
The Grit scale (GS-12) is a widely used rating scale that assess passion and perseverance. The present study aimed to evaluate the reliability and validity of simple Chinese Version of Grit Scale (GS-SC) among Chinese adolescents.

Methods
Seven hundred one primary school students were recruited as Sample 1. Item analysis and exploratory factor analysis (EFA) were conducted on Sample 1 to preliminarily examine the structure of the scale. Sample 2 consisted of 5,384 primary school students. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and verification of reliability and validity were conducted on Sample 2 to establish a formal scale and further verify the psychometric properties by applying item response theory (IRT).

Results
EFA and CFA revealed a clear two-factor structure. The results demonstrated that the Simplified Chinese Version of Grit Scale had adequate internal consistency and re-test reliability. GS-CS also showed good criterion-validity with personality, self-control, effort regulation and academic achievement. Furthermore, all the items show a acceptable fit to the GRM and have good discrimination (ranging from 2.13 to 3.45) and moderate difficulty(ranging from-1.58 to 0.95).

Conclusions
The reliability and validity of the GS-SC are good, indicating that the scale can be used as an effective tool for measuring the grit of primary school students in China.
Sustainable development and formative evaluation of mathematics open educational resources created by pre-service teachers: an action research study
Authors: Lo Chung Kwan , Ng Fletcher , Cheung Ka Luen 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn the post-pandemic world, UNESCO advocates the development of open educational resources (OER) to remedy the financial pressures of students and their families. We thus conducted a dual-cycle action research study aiming to develop a sustainable model with minimal cost for creating OER for secondary school mathematics teachers and students. Our theoretical foundations drew upon existing sustainable models of OER development and experiential learning theory to enhance the efficacy of OER. Formative evaluation techniques were employed in both action research cycles, where pre-service teachers developed the OER and in-service teachers provided suggestions for improvement. In the second cycle, we tested the use of our OER with 35 Grade 11 students to examine both student achievement and retention. The test results showed a significant learning gain (pre-test: Mdn = 2.00; post-test: Mdn = 10.00), which was retained over 2 weeks (delayed post-test: Mdn = 11.00). However, the students’ performance on more advanced questions was not satisfactory. Based on an overall reflection on the study, we proposed a sustainable model of OER development, which leveraged the manpower of pre-service and in-service teachers and incorporated formative evaluation techniques. Furthermore, we provided recommendations for enhancing the future development of OER in mathematics education.
Interaction-focused music therapy with cancer-affected children and their significant others: a randomized controlled feasibility study with subsequent intervention (INMUT)
Authors: Boyde Constance , Berger Bettina , Längler Alfred , Neugebauer Lutz , Jacobsen Stine Lindahl , Swanick Rachel , Gaebel Christine , Schneider Dominik , Bernbeck Benedikt , Paulussen Michael , Ostermann Thomas , Hunger-Schoppe Christina 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Paediatric oncology/haematology patients and their families are confronted with a life-threatening situation for which music therapy can be a cross-linguistic field of action. The creative act of making music together offers the possibility to strengthen competences and make conflicts tangible. Besides its complementing of evidence-based biomedical care, there is little research on the feasibility and efficacy of interactive music therapy including the diagnosed child and their significant others.

Methods
We conducted an assessor blind, prospective, multicentric feasibility randomized controlled trial (RCT) with subsequent intervention. Including overall 52 child-significant other dyads, INMUT investigates interaction-focused music therapy with cancer-affected children and their significant others (INMUT-KB; n = 21) compared to music therapy only with the child (MUT-K; n = 21) and a wait-list group (WLG; n = 10). The measurement points include the screening for a cancer diagnosis, psychometric baseline (pre-T1), initial assessment (T1/T2), music therapy sessions (T3–T9), final assessment (T10), final psychometric evaluation (post-T10), and 3-month follow-up (cat-T11). Feasibility and acceptability of the (1) research methodology, (2) intervention and (3) estimation of effect sizes will be assessed using qualitative and quantitative data. The proposed primary outcome includes the parent–child interaction (APCI), and the proposed secondary outcomes refer to subjective goal achievement (GAS), quality of life (KINDL), system-related functional level (EXIS), psychosocial stress (BAS), psychosomatic complaints (SCL-9k), and resources (WIRF). We plan to investigate the efficacy of INMUT-KB and MUT-K post-intervention (post-T10) within the RCT design and at 3-month follow-up (cat-T11).

Discussion
This study will provide insights into the feasibility of INMUT and the final sample needed for a confirmatory RCT. We will reflect on successfully implemented study procedures and, if necessary, provide recommendations for changes considering the design, procedures, measures, and statistical analyses. The discussion will conclude with an evaluation whether a confirmatory RCT is worth the investment of future resources, including the calculated number of child-significant other dyads needed based on the efficacy trends derived from this feasibility study.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05534282; date of registration: June 23, 2022.
Between meeting quotas and following the duty-bound heart: navigating the formidable dilemma of refugee protection in the EU
Authors: Efthymiou Dimitrios 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe provision of refuge to those fleeing persecution and danger is a complex matter that cannot be reduced to simply meeting admission quotas. While numerical targets for refugee admissions may seem like a straightforward way to ensure states are doing their fair share, an overemphasis on numbers risks obscuring the deeper moral issues at play. A truly robust approach to refugee protection requires that states act from the right kinds of reasons - a genuine commitment to the duty to provide safe haven to all refugees, regardless of their country of origin or the political expediency of admitting them. The worry is that if a state’s willingness to accept refugees fluctuates based on domestic political preferences and perceptions of national interest, rather than an unwavering recognition of the moral claims of the forcibly displaced, then the protection provided to refugees becomes contingent and precarious. A disposition to selectively protect only certain refugees undermines the very concept of refuge. However, in our non-ideal world, a commitment to the principle of robust refugee protection can run up against the hard reality of state non-compliance. If the only way to get some states to fulfil their duties is to allow them leeway in choosing which refugees to admit, we face a serious moral dilemma. Relaxing the demands of robustness may enable larger raw numbers of people to access refuge in the near term. However, it also risks eroding the norm of impartial consideration and creating a two-tier system of refugee protection. Ultimately, I argue, the dilemma between refugee numbers and robustness has no fully satisfying solution - it is an unavoidable product of our current circumstances of injustice and non-compliance. The best we can do is seek arrangements that ease this tension over time. This requires taking a nuanced, context-sensitive approach attuned to real-world constraints and trade-offs while still keeping sight of the moral lodestar of genuinely unconditional refuge for all who need it.