bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
RPL35A promotes the progression of cholangiocarcinoma by mediating HSPA8 ubiquitination
Authors: Zhang Chengshuo , Wang Yu , Wu Gang , Sun Ning , Bai Han , Li Xuejian , Han Shuai , Zhou Haonan , Qi Ruizhao , Zhang Jialin 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a biliary epithelial malignant tumor with an increasing incidence worldwide. Therefore, further understanding of the molecular mechanisms of CCA progression is required to identify new therapeutic targets.

Methods
The expression of RPL35A in CCA and para-carcinoma tissues was detected by immunohistochemical staining. IP-MS combined with Co-IP identified downstream proteins regulated by RPL35A. Western blot and Co-IP of CHX or MG-132 treated CCA cells were used to verify the regulation of HSPA8 protein by RPL35A. Cell experiments and subcutaneous tumorigenesis experiments in nude mice were performed to evaluate the effects of RPL35A and HSPA8 on the proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle, migration of CCA cells and tumor growth in vivo.

Results
RPL35A was significantly upregulated in CCA tissues and cells. RPL35A knockdown inhibited the proliferation and migration of HCCC-9810 and HUCCT1 cells, induced apoptosis, and arrested the cell cycle in G1 phase. HSPA8 was a downstream protein of RPL35A and overexpressed in CCA. RPL35A knockdown impaired HSPA8 protein stability and increased HSPA8 protein ubiquitination levels. RPL35A overexpression promoted CCA cell proliferation and migration. HSPA8 knockdown inhibited CCA cell proliferation and migration, and reversed the promoting effect of RPL35A. Furthermore, RPL35A promoted tumor growth in vivo. In contrast, HSPA8 knockdown suppressed tumor growth, while was able to restore the effects of RPL35A overexpression.

Conclusion
RPL35A was upregulated in CCA tissues and promoted the progression of CCA by mediating HSPA8 ubiquitination.
The effect of a cognitive training therapy based on stimulation of brain oscillations in patients with mild cognitive impairment in a Chilean sample: study protocol for a phase IIb, 2 × 3 mixed factorial, double-blind randomised controlled trial
Authors: Figueroa-Vargas Alejandra , Góngora Begoña , Alonso María Francisca , Ortega Alonso , Soto-Fernández Patricio , Z-Rivera Lucía , Ramírez Sebastián , González Francisca , Muñoz Venturelli Paula , Billeke Pablo 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
The ageing population has increased the prevalence of disabling and high-cost diseases, such as dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The latter can be considered a prodromal phase of some dementias and a critical stage for interventions to postpone the impairment of functionality. Working memory (WM) is a pivotal cognitive function, representing the fundamental element of executive functions. This project proposes an intervention protocol to enhance WM in these users, combining cognitive training with transcranial electrical stimulation of alternating current (tACS). This technique has been suggested to enhance the neuronal plasticity needed for cognitive processes involving oscillatory patterns. WM stands to benefit significantly from this approach, given its well-defined electrophysiological oscillations. Therefore, tACS could potentially boost WM in patients with neurodegenerative diseases.

Methods
This study is a phase IIb randomised, double-blind clinical trial with a 3-month follow-up period. The study participants will be 62 participants diagnosed with MCI, aged over 60, from Valparaíso, Chile. Participants will receive an intervention combining twelve cognitive training sessions with tACS. Participants will receive either tACS or placebo stimulation in eight out of twelve training sessions. Sessions will occur twice weekly over 6 weeks. The primary outcomes will be electroencephalographic measurements through the prefrontal theta oscillatory activity, while the secondary effects will be cognitive assessments of WM. The participants will be evaluated before, immediately after, and 3 months after the end of the intervention.

Discussion
The outcomes of this trial will add empirical evidence about the benefits and feasibility of an intervention that combines cognitive training with non-invasive brain stimulation. The objective is to contribute tools for optimal cognitive treatment in patients with MCI. To enhance WM capacity, postpone the impairment of functionality, and obtain a better quality of life.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05291208. Registered on 28 February 2022. ISRCTN87597719 retrospectively registered on 15 September 2023.
An innovative strategy for deworming dogs in Mediterranean areas highly endemic for cystic echinococcosis
Authors: Nocerino Martina , Pepe Paola , Bosco Antonio , Ciccone Elena , Maurelli Maria Paola , Boué Franck , Umhang Gérald , Pellegrini Justine , Lahmar Samia , Said Yousra , Sotiraki Smaragda , Ligda Panagiota , Laatamna AbdElkarim , Saralli Giorgio , Paciello Orlando , Alterisio Maria Chiara , Rinaldi Laura 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Cystic echinococcosis (CE), caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato, is a zoonotic parasitic disease of economic and public health importance worldwide, especially in the Mediterranean area. Canids are the main definitive hosts of the adult cestode contaminating the environment with parasite eggs released with feces. In rural and peri-urban areas, the risk of transmission to livestock as well as humans is high because of the free-roaming behavior of owned/not owned dogs. Collecting data on animal movements and behavior using GPS dataloggers could be a milestone to contain the spread of this parasitosis. Thus, this study aims to develop a comprehensive control strategy, focused on deworming a dog population in a pilot area of southern Italy (Campania region) highly endemic for CE.

Methods
Accordingly, five sheep farms, tested to be positive for CE, were selected. In each sheep farm, all shepherd dogs present were treated every 2 months with praziquantel. Furthermore, 15 GPS dataloggers were applied to sheep and dogs, and their movements were tracked for 1 month; the distances that they traveled and their respective home ranges were determined using minimum convex polygon (MCP) analysis with a convex hull geometry as output.

Results
The results showed that the mean daily walking distances traveled by sheep and dogs did not significantly differ. Over 90% of the point locations collected by GPS fell within 1500 mt of the farm, and the longest distances were traveled between 10:00 and 17:00. In all the sheep farms monitored, the area traversed by the animals during their daily activities showed an extension of < 250 hectares. Based on the home range of the animals, the area with the highest risk of access from canids (minimum safe convex polygon) was estimated around the centroid of each farm, and a potential scheme for the delivery of praziquantel-laced baits for the treatment of not owned dogs gravitating around the grazing area was designed.

Conclusions
This study documents the usefulness of geospatial technology in supporting parasite control strategies to reduce disease transmission.

Graphical Abstract
The Robin problems for the coupled system of reaction–diffusion equations
Authors: Huang Po-Chun , Pan Bo-Yu 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThis article investigates the local well-posedness of Turing-type reaction–diffusion equations with Robin boundary conditions in the Sobolev space. Utilizing the Hadamard norm, we derive estimates for Fokas unified transform solutions for linear initial-boundary value problems subject to external forces. Subsequently, we demonstrate that the iteration map, defined by the unified transform solutions and incorporating nonlinearity instead of external forces, acts as a contraction map within an appropriate solution space. Our conclusive result is established through the application of the contraction mapping theorem.
“Take services to the people”: strategies to optimize uptake of PrEP and harm reduction services among people who inject drugs in Uganda
Authors: Kamusiime Brenda , Beima-Sofie Kristin , Chhun Nok , Nalumansi Alisaati , Nalukwago Grace Kakoola , Kasiita Vicent , Twesige Chris Collins , Kansiime Ritah , Muwonge Timothy R. , Kyambadde Peter , Kadama Herbert , Mudiope Peter , Glick Sara , Lambdin Barrot , Mujugira Andrew , Heffron Renee 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
People who inject drugs (PWID) are at increased risk of HIV acquisition and often encounter barriers to accessing healthcare services. Uganda has high HIV prevalence among PWID and lacks integrated pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and harm reduction services. Understanding PWID experiences accessing and using harm reduction services and PrEP will inform strategies to optimize integration that align with PWID needs and priorities.

Methods
Between May 2021 and March 2023, we conducted semi-structured interviews with PWID in Kampala, Uganda. We recruited participants with and without previous experience accessing harm reduction services and/or PrEP using purposive and snowball sampling. Interviews were audio recorded, translated, and transcribed. We used thematic analysis to characterize motivations for uptake of harm reduction and HIV prevention services, and strategies to optimize delivery of needle and syringe programs (NSP), medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), and PrEP.

Results
We conducted interviews with 41 PWID. Most participants were relatively aware of their personal HIV risk and accurately identified situations that increased risk, including sharing needles and engaging in transactional sex. Despite risk awareness, participants described engaging in known HIV risk behaviors to satisfy immediate drug use needs. All reported knowledge of harm reduction services, especially distribution of sterile needles and syringes, and many reported having experience with MOUD. Participants who had accessed MOUD followed two primary trajectories; limited resources and relationships with other PWID caused them to discontinue treatment while desire to regain something they believed was lost to their drug use motivated them to continue. Overall, PrEP knowledge among participants was limited and few reported ever taking PrEP. However, participants supported integrating PrEP into harm reduction service delivery and advocated for changes in how these services are accessed. Stigma experienced in healthcare facilities and challenges acquiring money for transportation presented barriers to accessing current facility-based harm reduction and HIV prevention services.

Conclusions
Meeting the HIV prevention needs of PWID in Uganda will require lowering barriers to access, including integrated delivery of PrEP and harm reduction services and bringing services directly to communities. Additional training in providing patient-centered care for healthcare providers may improve uptake of facility-based services.
How is intergenerational emotional cohesion linked to depression among older internal migrants in China: the mediating roles of loneliness and perceived stress
Authors: Deng Ruyue , Yan Shiyuan , Zhang Lin , Hou Yanjie , Wang Hao , Zhang Wenjing , Yao Jun 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Late-life internal migration is frequently associated with a higher risk of depression in older parents. This research delves into the impact of intergenerational emotional cohesion (IEC) on depression in older internal migrants and the underlying mechanisms within the contemporary Chinese context.

Methods
Obtained from a cross-sectional survey in Nanjing, China, the research involved 654 older internal migrants (66.97% female; mean age = 66.05 years; SD = 4.67). Variables were assessed using the Intergenerational Solidarity Inventory, 3-item R-UCLA Loneliness Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, and 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). For mediation exploration, a serial mediation model was utilized, and the Bootstrap method was employed to test the signifcance of these mediation effects.

Results
IEC demonstrates a negative correlation with depression. Through IEC, three significant mediation pathways were identified that directly affect depression: (1) loneliness (β=-0.06; Ratio=17.14%), (2) perceived stress (β=-0.09; Ratio=25.71%), and (3) loneliness and perceived stress (β=-0.03; Ratio=8.57%).

Conclusions
IEC can impact the depression of older internal migrants by mitigating negative psychological emotions during the migration process. This finding provides valuable theoretical insights for the prevention of mental health problems among this demographic.
Stimulating VAPB-PTPIP51 ER-mitochondria tethering corrects FTD/ALS mutant TDP43 linked Ca2+ and synaptic defects
Authors: Markovinovic Andrea , Martín-Guerrero Sandra M. , Mórotz Gábor M. , Salam Shaakir , Gomez-Suaga Patricia , Paillusson Sebastien , Greig Jenny , Lee Younbok , Mitchell Jacqueline C. , Noble Wendy , Miller Christopher C.J. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractFrontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are clinically linked major neurodegenerative diseases. Notably, TAR DNA-binding protein-43 (TDP43) accumulations are hallmark pathologies of FTD/ALS and mutations in the gene encoding TDP43 cause familial FTD/ALS. There are no cures for FTD/ALS. FTD/ALS display damage to a broad range of physiological functions, many of which are regulated by signaling between the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria. This signaling is mediated by the VAPB-PTPIP51 tethering proteins that serve to recruit regions of ER to the mitochondrial surface so as to facilitate inter-organelle communications. Several studies have now shown that disrupted ER-mitochondria signaling including breaking of the VAPB-PTPIP51 tethers are features of FTD/ALS and that for TDP43 and other familial genetic FTD/ALS insults, this involves activation of glycogen kinase-3β (GSK3β). Such findings have prompted suggestions that correcting damage to ER-mitochondria signaling and the VAPB-PTPIP51 interaction may be broadly therapeutic. Here we provide evidence to support this notion. We show that overexpression of VAPB or PTPIP51 to enhance ER-mitochondria signaling corrects mutant TDP43 induced damage to inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor delivery of Ca2+ to mitochondria which is a primary function of the VAPB-PTPIP51 tethers, and to synaptic function. Moreover, we show that ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), an FDA approved drug linked to FTD/ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases therapy and whose precise therapeutic target is unclear, corrects TDP43 linked damage to the VAPB-PTPIP51 interaction. We also show that this effect involves inhibition of TDP43 mediated activation of GSK3β. Thus, correcting damage to the VAPB-PTPIP51 tethers may have therapeutic value for FTD/ALS and other age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
Using collaborative autoethnography to investigate mentoring relationships for novice engineering education researchers
Authors: Martin Julie P. , Suresh Deepthi E. , Jensen Paul A. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
The National Science Foundation Research Initiation in Engineering Formation (RIEF) program aims to increase research capacity in the field by providing funding for technical engineering faculty to learn to conduct engineering education research through mentorship by an experienced social science researcher. We use collaborative autoethnography to study the tripartite RIEF mentoring relationship between Julie, an experienced engineering education researcher, and two novice education researchers who have backgrounds in biomedical engineering—Paul, a biomedical engineering faculty member and major professor to the second novice, Deepthi, a graduate student. We ground our work in the cognitive apprenticeship model and Eby and colleagues’ mentoring model.

Results
Using data from written reflections and interviews, we explored the role of instrumental and psychosocial supports in our mentoring relationship. In particular, we noted how elements of cognitive apprenticeship such as scaffolding and gradual fading of instrumental supports helped Paul and Deepthi learn qualitative research skills that differed drastically from their biomedical engineering research expertise. We initially conceptualized our tripartite relationship as one where Julie mentored Paul and Paul subsequently mentored Deepthi. Ultimately, we realized that this model was unrealistic because Paul did not yet possess the social science research expertise to mentor another novice. As a result, we changed our model so that Julie mentored both Paul and Deepthi directly. While our mentoring relationship was overall very positive, it has included many moments of miscommunication and misunderstanding. We draw on Lent and Lopez’s idea of relation-inferred self-efficacy to explain some of these missed opportunities for communication and understanding.

Conclusions
This paper contributes to the literature on engineering education capacity building by studying mentoring as a mechanism to support technically trained researchers in learning to conduct engineering education research. Our initial mentoring model failed to take into account how challenging it is for mentees to make the paradigm shift from technical engineering to social science research and how that would affect Paul’s ability to mentor Deepthi. Our experiences have implications for expanding research capacity because they raise practical and conceptual issues for experienced and novice engineering education researchers to consider as they form mentoring relationships.
Expression of key unfolded protein response genes predicts patient survival and an immunosuppressive microenvironment in glioblastoma
Authors: Oliveira Fernanda Dittrich , de Campos Rafael Paschoal , Pereira Luiza Cherobini , Meira Lisiane B. , Lenz Guido 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Dysregulation of cellular processes related to protein folding and trafficking leads to the accumulation of misfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), triggering ER stress. Cells cope with ER stress by activating the unfolded protein response (UPR), a signaling pathway that has been implicated in a variety of diseases, including cancer. However, the role of the UPR in cancer initiation and progression is still unclear.

Methods
Here we used bulk and single cell RNA sequencing data to investigate ER stress-related gene expression in glioblastoma, as well as the impact key UPR genes have on patient survival.

Results
ER stress-related genes are highly expressed in both cancer cells and tumor-associated macrophages, with evidence of high intra- and inter-tumor heterogeneity. High expression of the UPR-related genes HSPA5, P4HB, and PDIA4 was identified as risk factors while high MAPK8 (JNK1) expression was identified as a protective factor in glioblastoma patients, indicating UPR genes have prognostic potential in this cancer type. Finally, expression of XBP1 and MAPK8, two key downstream targets of the ER sentinel IRE1α, correlates with the presence of immune cell types associated with immunosuppression and a worse patient outcome. This suggests that the expression of these genes is associated with an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and uncover a potential link between stress response pathways, tumor microenvironment and glioblastoma patient survival.

Conclusions
We performed a comprehensive transcriptional characterization of the unfolded protein response in glioblastoma patients and identified UPR-related genes associated with glioblastoma patient survival, providing potential prognostic and predictive biomarkers as well as promising targets for developing new therapeutic interventions in glioblastoma treatment.
Effect of functional electrical stimulation of interscapular muscles on trunk performance and balance in post-stroke elderly patients
Authors: Elhamrawy Mohammed Youssef , Bahnasy Wafik Said , Elkady Sabah Mohamed , Said Mohamed Taha 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Disability in the upper limb in post-stroke survivors may have a variety of effects, particularly in the elderly, that require planning therapeutic actions to restore function. Thirty-four patients were randomly assigned to the control group (CON) and the Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) group. For 12 weeks, the CON group received core stabilization exercises (CSEs). The FES group received (FES) for the interscapular muscles with CSEs for the first six weeks and completed the following six weeks with only CSEs. Patients were assessed at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks post-intervention. The trunk impairment scale (TIS) and the Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke (PASS) were used to assess trunk performance. A palpation meter was used to measure the scapular horizontal position (SP). Balance was assessed by the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and the Timed Up-and-Go test (TUG). Function was assessed with Barthel Index (BI).

Results
Both groups improved significantly (P < 0.001 for both groups, d = 1.1–3.7 for control group and d = 1.9–6.1 for FES group) post-treatment (at 6 and 12 weeks) in all outcomes except SP in the control group (P < 0.05 at both times, d = 0.6 at 6 weeks and 0.8 at 12 weeks).

Conclusion
FES for interscapular muscles may have positive effects on trunk performance, scapular position, balance, and function in stroke patients. Also, additional improvements were observed post-intervention compared to baseline. FES is recommended to be part of the rehabilitation program of elderly post-stroke patients.
Surgical treatment of cavernous sinus meningioma with petrous bone invasion causing internal auditory canal stenosis and hearing impairment 7 years after gamma-knife radiosurgery
Authors: Mukai Yasuhiro , Sugawara Takashi , Arai Yukika , Maehara Taketoshi 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Surgical intervention for cavernous sinus meningiomas remains challenging because of their anatomically complicated location. We report a case of a cavernous sinus meningioma that enlarged and caused hearing impairment due to internal auditory canal stenosis 7 years after gamma-knife radiosurgery.

Case description
A 38-year-old man with abducent nerve paralysis and dysesthesia on the left side of the face was diagnosed with a cavernous sinus meningioma with thickened petrous bone. After a year, the patient had mild left-sided hearing impairment, and gamma-knife radiosurgery was performed. At the age of 46, the left hearing impairment worsened, the tumor was slightly enlarged, and petrous bone thickening in the internal auditory meatus had progressed. We partially resected the tumor, which seemed to be viable, and removed the thickened petrosal bone and opened the internal auditory meatus. The tumor was pathologically diagnosed as meningothelial meningioma. The patient’s hearing impairment did not progress, and the residual tumor had not grown for four years.

Conclusions
Removal of the viable tumor that progressed after gamma-knife radiosurgery and opening of the internal auditory meatus were effective in stopping the worsening of hearing impairment and controlling the tumor.