bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of metaverse on L2 vocabulary learning, retention, student engagement, presence, and community feeling
Authors: Çelik Ferdi , Baturay Meltem Huri 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the multifaceted impacts of Metaverse Based Language Teaching on high school L2 vocabulary learning and retention, engagement, community feeling, and diverse dimensions of presence, namely social, cognitive, teaching, and overall presence. Adopting a quasi-experimental design, the study provides an in-depth controlled trial. The participants in this study consist of 86 (43 male, 43 female) high school English language learners in Türkiye, who are assigned to two groups. The control group uses traditional instructional technologies while the experimental group engages with metaverse technology. The lessons are based on social constructivist theory for both groups. Pre- and post-tests are employed to quantitatively assess vocabulary learning and retention and reveal substantial improvements in both areas. A series of carefully selected psychometric scales capture core aspects of engagement, community feeling, and presence. The findings reveal increased levels of engagement and a sense of presence, and connectedness within the language learning community, which confirms the efficacy of the MBLT. However, the improvement in social presence does not reach statistical significance. Cumulatively, the findings of this research transcend mere quantifiable improvements in vocabulary learning and retention. They reveal a holistic transformation of the language learning experience by emphasizing the significance of social interactions and digital embodiment in high school second language education through metaverse. The research highlights the metaverse’s potential in shaping the future of language education, reimagining traditional paradigms, and proposing a new era of immersive, interactive, and transformative pedagogy.
Expression of chitosanase from Aspergillus fumigatus chitosanase in Saccharomyces cerevisiae by CRISPR-Cas9 tools
Authors: Zhang Qingshuai , Cao Hui 
Published: February 2024

AbstractChitooligosaccharides (COS) find numerous applications due to their exceptional properties. Enzymatic hydrolysis of chitosan by chitosanase is considered an advantageous route for COS production. Heterologous expression of chitosanase holds significant promise, yet studies using commonly employed Escherichia coli and Pichia pastoris strains encounter challenges in subsequent handling and industrial scalability. In this investigation, we opted for using the safe yeast strain Saccharomyces cerevisiae (GRAS), obviating the need for methanol induction, resulting in successful expression. Ultimately, utilizing the GTR-CRISPR editing system, shake flask enzyme activity reached 2 U/ml. The optimal chitosanase activity was achieved at 55℃ and pH 5, with favorable stability between 30 and 50 °C. Following a 2-h catalytic reaction, the product primarily consisted of chitobiose to chitotetraose, predominantly at the chitotriose position, with a slight increase in chitobiose content observed during the later stages of enzymatic hydrolysis. The results affirm the feasibility of heterologous chitosanase expression through Saccharomyces cerevisiae, underscoring its significant industrial potential.
Graphical Abstract
IgG4-related mastitis managed without excision or steroid therapy
Authors: Matsushima Hirokazu , Kikuchi Masayuki , Miyabe Rika , Yamaguchi Sota , Kita Hidenori , Kobayashi Junko , Ando Takashi , Atsuta Koji , Soga Takayoshi , Shintani Tsunehiro 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIgG4-related mastitis is an extremely rare IgG4-related sclerosing disease involving the breast that must be differentiated from breast cancer. There is currently no consensus regarding the optimal treatment strategies. Here, we report a case of IgG4-related mastitis followed up without excision or steroid therapy. Although the association between IgG4-related mastitis and breast cancer remains unclear, regular follow-up imaging and measurement of serum concentrations of disease activity markers may allow for follow-up without excision or steroid therapy.
The seeds of Plantago lanceolata comprise a stable core microbiome along a plant richness gradient
Authors: de Souza Yuri Pinheiro Alves , Schloter Michael , Weisser Wolfgang , Huang Yuanyuan , Schulz Stefanie 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Seed endophytic bacteria are beneficial to plants. They improve seedling growth by enhancing plant nutrient uptake, modulating stress-related phytohormone production, and targeting pests and pathogens with antibiotics. Seed endophyte composition can be influenced by pollination, plant cultivar, and soil physicochemical conditions. However, the effects of plant community richness on seed endophytes are unknown. To investigate the effects of increasing plant species richness on the diversity and composition of the seed microbiome, we made use of a well-established long-term biodiversity experiment in Germany (The Jena Experiment). We sampled seeds from different Plantago lanceolata blossoms in a plant diversity gradient ranging from monoculture to 16 species mixtures. The seeds were surface sterilized to remove seed surface-associated bacteria and subjected to a metabarcoding approach to assess bacterial community structure.

Results
Our data indicate a very stable core microbiome, which accounted for more than 90% of the reads and was present in all seeds independent of the plant richness level the seeds originated from. It consisted mainly of reads linked to Pseudomonas rhizosphaerae, Sphingomonas faeni and Pirellulla spp. 9% of the obtained reads were not part of the core microbiome and were only present in plots of specific diversity levels. The number of unique ASVs was positively correlated with plant richness. Interestingly, most reads described as non-core members belonged to the same genera described as the core microbiome, indicating the presence of different strains or species with possibly different functional properties important for seed performance.

Conclusion
Our data indicate that Plantago lanceolata maintains a large seeds core microbiome across the plant richness gradient. However, the number of unique ASVs increases alongside the plant community richness, indicating that ecosystem biodiversity also mitigates diversity loss in seed endophytes.
Lessons learned about development and assessment of feasibility of tools for health and rehabilitation services
Authors: Kathard Harsha , Mallick Rizwana , Cloete Tracey-lee , Hansen Anthea , Thabane Lehana 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Given the dire need for health and rehabilitation services internationally, exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a critical need to develop tools to support service delivery. This need is palpable in the Global South where tools developed in Eurocentric contexts are not always adaptable, applicable, or relevant. It is for this reason that the researchers present three case studies of tool development using pilot and feasibility studies in South Africa and share the lessons learned from these studies.

Objectives
To describe three case studies that developed new tools for health and rehabilitation services using pilot and feasibility studies.
To synthesize lessons learned from these case studies on the development of tools.

Method
The researchers describe three case studies that were developed. The case studies are summarized as follows: aims and objectives, context, problem, study design, findings, and what happened after the study. Thereafter, a qualitative cross-case analysis was conducted by the researchers to generate themes.

Findings
The case studies are described individually and followed by themes identified through cross-case analysis.

Discussion
The lessons learned are discussed. It is essential to develop new tools and protocols, motivated by the need for equitable and contextually relevant practices. Partnerships and collaboration with end-users are critical for success. A critical, scientific process is essential in developing new tools. Pilot and feasibility studies are invaluable in developing tools and assessing the feasibility of tools and implementation. The goal is to develop practical, usable tools and protocols.

Conclusion
Through the lessons learned, the researchers are hopeful that the international health and rehabilitation professions will continue to strengthen the scientific development of contextually relevant tools and resources.
Fighting to belong: drivers for transnational diaspora military service in Israel and beyond
Authors: Yohanani Lior 
Published: February 2024

AbstractPrevious studies have explored two scenarios wherein diaspora members fight for their ancestral homeland: (1) in response to immediate threats, and (2) when the homeland’s conscription laws mandate enlistment. This study investigates diaspora military service (DMS) in Israel, where DMS occurs voluntarily outside of acute crises or compulsory conscription requirements. Utilizing survey and interview data from over 1100 diaspora soldiers, it compares enlistment motivations across three diaspora groups with varied ties to Israel and Judaism: North Americans, Israeli Americans, and individuals from the Former Soviet Union. The study conceptualizes DMS as a state led effort to cultivate an engaged diaspora and advance Jewish immigration. This framework enables examining DMS, beyond the immediate military context, as a site for identity exploration, cultural assimilation, and contemplating permanent immigration. Despite varied emphases, results show that DMS occurs in a migratory context as soldiers from all groups recognize service as essential for immigration, integration, and acceptance in Israel. The study formulates three motivational models that drive transnational military engagement across contexts: the “ideological model” among conviction-driven actors; the “mobility model” among those focused on upward mobility; and the “reconnection model” for cementing national belonging and avoid stigma.
Transcranial ultrasonography as a predictor of disease progression in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Fahmy Ebtesam , Helmy Hanan , Merghany Nahla Aly , Ismail Rania Shehata , Mounir Nesma 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Development of novel biomarkers for multiple sclerosis (MS) is of utmost importance to improve the capability to predict disease progression and disability. Transcranial ultrasonography (TCS) is a noninvasive imaging technique that allows the visualization of major parenchymal structures. This study aimed to evaluate the role of parenchymal transcranial sonography as a predictor for disease severity and progression in MS patients. Sixty patients with clinically definite Multiple sclerosis divided into two groups, relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS) group and chronic progressive MS (CPMS) group were included.

Results
There was a statistically significant increase in the mean diameters of the third ventricle, both frontal horns of lateral ventricle in RRMS and CPMS group compared to control values, and in CPMS group compared to RRMS group. Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score was significantly positively correlated with the diameter of right frontal horn of lateral ventricle in CPMS group. Linear regression analysis revealed that diameters of right frontal horn of lateral ventricle and third ventricle were independent predictors for MS severity.

Conclusions
TCS can be used as a simple noninvasive tool for prediction of disease severity and progression in MS patients.
One health initiative to mitigate the challenge of antimicrobial resistance in the perspectives of developing countries
Authors: Tesema Misganu Yadesa , Birhanu Alemayehu Godana 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Antimicrobial resistance is among the critical global public health crises nowadays.

Main body of the abstract
Despite its global nature, antimicrobial resistance disproportionately affects developing countries due to scant diagnostic services, insufficient prescription procedures, inadequate dissemination of information to patients, unauthorized sale of antimicrobials, use of substandard or falsified drugs, poor drug regulatory mechanisms, non-human use of antimicrobials, lack of awareness, expertise, and funds, and also lack of political will to implement the necessary measurements. Furthermore, the disposal of human and animal wastes close to human residences, and lack of access to clean water contribute to the dissemination of antimicrobial resistant bacteria and antimicrobial-resistant genes. Antimicrobial resistance is predicted to reduce gross domestic product by 1.1–3.8% by 2050. These include a $60-$100 trillion loss resulting in increased morbidity and mortality in developing countries. The world's highest mortality rate from antimicrobial resistance infection is observed in Africa. To alleviate such life-threatening challenge, One Health strategies like effective communication, education, training, surveillance, detection and joint effort across disciplines and sectors are urgently needed. Global and national preparedness to identify and prioritize antimicrobial resistance-relevant pollutants, surveillance and monitoring of antimicrobials is important.

Short conclusion
Therefore, the present review aims to address the collaborative efforts for joint action by several sectors and multidisciplinary areas under the umbrella of One Health to combat antimicrobial resistance challenges in developing countries.
Highly specific and super-sensitive Dot-ELISA and colloidal gold immunochromatographic strip for detecting Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola of rice bacterial leaf streak
Authors: Dong Saiyu , Liu Nairu , Zhang Xi , Zhang Cui , Li Bin , An Qianli , Zhou Xueping , Wu Jianxiang 
Published: February 2024

AbstractRice bacterial leaf streak (BLS), caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola (Xoc), is a worldwide destructive rice bacterial disease, and seriously affects the global rice industry. Effective integrated management measures for BLS depend on the timely and proper detection of Xoc. Here, two highly specific and super-sensitive monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) against Xoc were first prepared using the cultured Xoc RS105 as an immunogen. Then, two serological assays, Dot enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Dot-ELISA) and Colloidal gold immunochromatographic strip (CGICS), were developed for the super-sensitive and broad-spectrum detection of Xoc in homogenates prepared from field-collected rice plants. The newly created Dot-ELISA and CGICS assays can detect ten different Xoc strains from various provinces in China and other countries without cross-reactivity with the other ten tested plant bacteria. Furthermore, Dot-ELISA and CGICS can detect Xoc in bacterial suspensions diluted up to 9.78 × 103 CFU/mL and 4.88 × 103 CFU/mL, respectively, or in rice plant tissue homogenates diluted up to 1:51,200 (w/v, g/mL). Surprisingly, both Dot-ELISA and CGICS serological assays were more sensitive than the conventional PCR. Additionally, analysis results using field-collected rice samples showed that the newly created Dot-ELISA and CGICS were reliable in detecting Xoc in rice tissues. Thus, the two serological assays were highly valuable and effective for the diagnosis of rice bacterial leaf streak in rice-grown areas and for inspection and quarantine of Xoc.
The role of infections and inflammation in schizophrenia: review of the evidence
Authors: Ahmed Gellan K. , Ramadan Haidi Karam-Allah , Elbeh Khaled , Haridy Nourelhoda A. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness affecting approximately 1% of the population worldwide. While its exact causes remain unknown, emerging evidence suggests that infections and inflammation may contribute to disease development in a subset of individuals. This review comprehensively summarizes the evidence linking infections, immune system dysfunction, and schizophrenia risk.

Main body
Several population-based studies have linked serious prenatal or childhood infections requiring hospitalization to increased risk of later schizophrenia diagnosis, especially in individuals with genetic predisposition. Both central nervous system infections and systemic infections appear to confer risk. Specific pathogens including Toxoplasma gondii, herpesviruses, Chlamydophila, and more have been implicated. Autoimmune diseases are also associated with increased schizophrenia susceptibility, possibly due to blood-brain barrier disruption allowing brain-reactive antibodies access. The recent Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic raises questions about SARS-CoV-2 as a risk factor for new-onset psychosis. The mechanisms underlying the infection-schizophrenia link likely involve inflammation, cytokines, microglial activation, and tryptophan/kynurenine pathway modulation. Treatments targeting inflammation showed some efficacy in schizophrenia, further supporting an inflammation hypothesis. While the epidemiological and mechanistic evidence is substantial, further research is needed to conclusively determine the exact mechanisms linking immune dysfunction to schizophrenia requires further study.

Conclusion
The evidence suggests immune system abnormalities likely play a role, perhaps by interacting with genetic and environmental factors, in instigating schizophrenia pathophysiology in a subset of patients. More research is needed to understand these connections more clearly which may aid future prevention and personalized treatment approaches tailored to specific illness subtypes.
Diagnostic pitfalls and therapeutic challenges of hypercalcaemia in chronic kidney disease: a case report and a narrative review
Authors: Ruwanpathirana Pramith , Dissanayaka Harsha , Munasinghe Sachith , Wijayaratne Dilushi , Wijewickrama Eranga , Lanerolle Rushika D. , Katulanda Prasad 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Evaluation of hypercalcaemia in a patient with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is challenging, especially in low-resource settings. Hormone assays should be interpreted with caution as CKD affects both parathyroid hormone (PTH) and vitamin D. Therapies such as bisphosphonates are contraindicated in CKD, while fluid resuscitation can lead to volume overload. We report the diagnostic workup of a patient with stage V CKD who presented with symptomatic hypercalcaemia and discuss the diagnostic pitfalls and therapeutic challenges.

Case presentation
A 72-year-old Sri Lankan woman with stage V, non-oliguric CKD presented with a 2-week history of worsening lassitude, increased thirst and constipation. She was clinically euvolemic and did not have signs of uraemia. Bilateral lung fields had occasional coarse crepitations. The rest of the physical examination was normal. Her serum creatinine level was similar to her baseline (4.7 mg/dl, eGFR 9 ml/min). She was found to have a high serum calcium (14.3 mg/dl) and phosphate (5.0 mg/dl) levels. Her PTH level was 24.1 pg/ml (15–68), and she was deficient in 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (9 mg/ml (30–100)). She was not on calcium or vitamin D supplementation. Disseminated tuberculosis was diagnosed after detecting granulomata in the lungs and abdomen in the contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) and mycobacterial DNA in sputum. She was hydrated with 0.9% NaCl with meticulous use of frusemide. The effect of frusemide waned off by the 10th day, requiring haemodialysis to control the hypercalcaemia. Vitamin D was replaced intramuscularly with 200,000 IU, after which the calcium levels increased. She was treated with IV pamidronate 30 mg, and the calcium levels started reducing drastically. Antituberculous therapy (ATT) was initiated 7 days after pamidronate treatment. The calcium levels normalised 2 days after ATT and sustained beyond 2 months.

Conclusion
Interpretation of PTH and phosphate levels should be done with caution when evaluating hypercalcaemia in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease. First- and second-generation assays detect PTH fragments which accumulate in CKD, leading to false positives. Hypophosphataemic effects of PTH/PTHrP can be masked by accumulation of phosphate in CKD. Bisphosphonates might have a role in treating calcitriol-induced hypercalcaemia, although this needs further evaluation.
Pandemic impacts and experiences after disaster in Australia: qualitative study of compound impacts following the Black Summer bushfires
Authors: Cowlishaw S. , O'Dwyer C. , Bowd C. , Sadler N. , O'Donnell M. , Forbes D. , Howard A. 
Published: February 2024

Background
The first cases of the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia were recorded in January 2020, which was during the ‘Black Summer’ bushfires of 2019–20 and prior to additional disasters in some regions. Few studies have considered the compound impact of disasters and the pandemic.

Aims
To improve understanding of the impact on mental health and well-being of the pandemic in disaster-affected communities.

Method
We conducted semi-structured interviews (n = 18) with community members and online focus groups (n = 31) with help providers from three regions of rural Australia affected by bushfires and the pandemic.

Results
Six themes were produced: (a) ‘Pulling together, pulling apart’, describing experiences after bushfires and prior to impacts of the pandemic; (b) ‘Disruption of the ‘normal response’, encompassing changes to post-disaster recovery processes attributed to the pandemic; (c) ‘Escalating tensions and division in the community’, describing impacts on relationships; (d) ‘Everywhere you turn you get a slap in the face’, acknowledging impacts of bureaucratic ‘red tape’; (e) ‘There are layers of trauma’, highlighting intersecting traumas and pre-existing vulnerabilities; and (f) ‘Where does the help come from when we can't do it?’, encompassing difficulties accessing services and impacts on the helping workforce.

Conclusions
This study furthers our understanding of compound disasters and situates pandemic impacts in relation to processes of adjustment and recovery from bushfires. It highlights the need for long-term approaches to resilience and recovery, investment in social infrastructure, multi-component approaches to workforce issues, and strategies to increase mental health support and pathways across services.
Genetic Testing of Children With Familial Tall Stature: Is it Worth Doing?
Authors: Gregorova Katerina , Plachy Lukas , Dusatkova Petra , Maratova Klara , Neuman Vit , Kolouskova Stanislava , Snajderova Marta , Obermannova Barbora , Drnkova Lenka , Soucek Ondrej , Lebl Jan , Sumnik Zdenek , Pruhova Stepanka 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Context
Familial tall stature (FTS) is considered to be a benign variant of growth with a presumed polygenic etiology. However, monogenic disorders with possible associated pathological features could also be hidden under the FTS phenotype.

Objective
To elucidate the genetic etiology in families with FTS and to describe their phenotype in detail.

Methods
Children with FTS (the life-maximum height in both the child and his/her taller parent &gt; 2 SD for age and sex) referred to the Endocrinology center of Motol University Hospital were enrolled into the study. Their DNA was examined cytogenetically and via a next-generation sequencing panel of 786 genes associated with growth. The genetic results were evaluated by the American College of Molecular Genetics and Genomics guidelines. All of the participants underwent standard endocrinological examination followed by specialized anthropometric evaluation.

Results
In total, 34 children (19 girls) with FTS were enrolled in the study. Their median height and their taller parent's height were 3.1 SD and 2.5 SD, respectively. The genetic cause of FTS was elucidated in 11/34 (32.4%) children (47,XXX and 47,XYY karyotypes, SHOX duplication, and causative variants in NSD1 [in 2], SUZ12 [in 2], FGFR3, CHD8, GPC3, and PPP2R5D genes). Ten children had absent syndromic signs and 24 had dysmorphic features.

Conclusion
Monogenic (and cytogenetic) etiology of FTS can be found among children with FTS. Genetic examination should be considered in all children with FTS regardless of the presence of dysmorphic features.