bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Costus afer Ker Gawl (Bush cane) extracts modulate glucose uptake, triglyceride accumulation and oxidative stress in human SW 872 liposarcoma and HepG2 hepatocarcinoma cells
Authors: ATCHAN Achille Parfait NWAKIBAN , KUIATE Jules-Roger , AGBOR Gabriel AGBOR , Ferriere François , Dell’Agli Mario , Magni Paolo , Tchamgoue Armelle Deutou 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

The current study investigates the biological effects of Costus afer (CAL and CAS extracts), a plant with known antidiabetic properties used in traditional medicine in West and tropical Africa, on pathways involved in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in human adipocyte (SW 872) and hepatocyte (HepG2) cell models. The cytotoxicity of CAL and CAS extracts was assessed using the MTS assay, while their influence on glucose uptake in HepG2 and SW 872 cells and triglyceride accumulation in oleic acid-differentiated SW 872 cells were studied. The study also examined the in vitro antioxidant activity (expressed in Trolox equivalents), the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by H2O2, and the anti-inflammatory effects, as demonstrated by the inhibition of albumin denaturation. The extracts demonstrated no toxicity at concentrations between 1–50 µg/mL and significantly promoted glucose uptake in SW 872 cells (+ 46.7% and + 69.0%) and HepG2 cells in a dose-dependent manner (+ 42.6% and + 45.3%). Furthermore, CAL and CAS reduced triglyceride accumulation in differentiated SW 872 cells (CAL: − 34.6%; CAS: -38.4%) and displayed strong antioxidant activity, particularly CAS (11.38 ± 0.7 µM Trolox equivalent/g). Both extracts also reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production at 20 µg/mL and exhibited notable anti-inflammatory effects, inhibiting albumin denaturation by over 70% at 50 µg/mL and over 90% at 100 µg/mL. Costus afer presents significant therapeutic potential for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity. This research underscores the plant's promise as a natural treatment option for addressing metabolic disorders.
Safeguarding climate-resilient mangroves requires a small increase in the global protected area
Authors: Dabalà Alvise , Brown Christopher , Stocken Tom Van der , Buelow Christina A. , Schoeman David , Dunn Daniel , Lovelock Catherine , DAHDOUH-GUEBAS Farid , Flower Jason , Neubert Sandra , Buenafe Kristine , Everett Jason , Esturas Kris Jypson , Richardson Anthony 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Climate change and anthropogenic activities threaten biodiversity and ecosystem services. Climate-smart conservation plans address these challenges by focusing protection in climate-resilient areas. However, integrating climate change in the design of conservation plans is often deemed too expensive, as it may require larger networks or protecting more costly sites. Using mangroves as a case study, we evaluated the efficiency of protecting mangroves in climate-smart versus climate-naïve reserve networks. We found that climate-smart conservation plans could provide sizable benefits for relatively small increases in protected area. Moreover, transboundary plans, involving cooperation among countries, require less area and protect more climate-resilient mangroves than nation-by-nation plans. Implementing these strategies would improve the current network of protected areas for mangroves, which currently has poor climate resilience. These findings could also be applied in other ecosystems.
Maximizing the protein and fat recovery in black soldier fly larvae: a comparative study of drying methods
Authors: Bellanki Aishwarya , Shivanand Pradeep , Aralimarad Prabhuraj , Deshmukh Sharanabasappa S , Sankrappa Sridhara , Nagaraja Mavinakoppa S 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

The black soldier flies (BSF, Hermetia illucens) have become a novel and sustainable source of micronutrients, lipids, protein, and chitin. Because they are voracious eaters, larvae turn a variety of organic waste into useful resources like protein feed for fish, pigs, and chickens. Larvae of black soldier flies can be composted in addition to being used as animal feed. The purpose of this study was to compare several drying techniques for black soldier fly larvae in order to provide high-quality results. A microwave oven, solar tunnel dryer, tray drier, sun drying, and drum roasting were the five methods used to dry the adult larvae. Different time and temperature interactions are used in each method. According to the results, the drum roasting method recovered more crude protein and crude fat (32.72 and 48.52%, respectively). Following fat extraction, the maximum amount of fat was removed, increasing the crude protein level to 49.17%. Given that the crude protein recovery was lower under both normal and defatted conditions (26.48 ± 0.36% and 42.97 ± 0.74%); the solar tunnel drying method was the least popular of all the drying techniques. Thus, without compromising the nutritional value of BSFL meant for use as animal feed, our study indicates that the drum roasting process is superior to conventional drying techniques.
The Role of UBR2 in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer and Its Implications for Immune Checkpoint Blockade Therapy
Authors: Jiang Yanlin , Fu Yi , Song Xinyan , Xie Yongjie , Shang Xiaobin , Liang Xi 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Objective
UBR2 (also referred to as n-recognin 2, the E3 component of ubiquitin protein ligase) targets proteins with unstable N-terminal residues for polyubiquitination and proteasome-mediated degradation. It was initially identified as a crucial oncogene during embryonic development. Nevertheless, the function of UBR2 in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and its non-ubiquitination role, particularly in suppressing antitumor immune responses, remain elusive.
Methods
Utilizing bulk RNA and single-cell RNA sequencing datasets from the GEO and TCGA databases, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were discerned. Moreover, the relationship between UBR2 and PD-L1 was verified via overexpression viruses, shRNA viruses, and Western blotting. In addition, the correlation between UBR2 and immunotherapy was investigated by means of flow cytometry and immune-infiltration analysis in both in vivo and in vitro experiments.
Results
In the cohort of TNBC patients presenting an immune desert microenvironment, as well as in the group of patients responding poorly to PD-L1/PD-1 therapy, UBR2 exerted a significant impact on the establishment of an immunosuppressive microenvironment. The inhibition of UBR2 could diminish the expression of PD-L1 in TNBC cell lines. In addition, the expression level of UBR2 could act as a potential indicator for PD-L1 therapy in TNBC patients, where higher UBR2 expression suggests greater responsiveness to PD-L1 therapy. Concurrently, we screened for inhibitors (11-oxo-mogroside V) targeting the functional domain of UBR2, and concurrent inhibition of UBR2 in combination with PD1 therapy can reduce the tumor burden in TNBC.
Conclusion
Our findings indicate that the inhibition of UBR2 can augment TIL infiltration by diminishing PD-L1 expression, thereby emerging as an efficacious strategy (the functional inhibitors of UBR2) to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of PD-L1/PD1 blockers, offering a novel perspective for the treatment of TNBC through combined immunotherapy.
Models for Predicting Tree Diameter at Breast Height from Over and Under Bark Diameter of Stump in Eucalyptus camaldulensis Plantations
Authors: Austin Denis U.O. , Yirdaw Eshetu 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Allometric functions that predict tree diameter at breast height (D) from stump diameter (DS), referred to as DS-D models, are essential for estimating forest metrics like stand volume and belowground carbon (C), especially when D cannot be measured, such as after inadequately recorded clearcutting or illegal logging of threatened species.Many available DS-D models are generic for diverse species and ecological condition, and arelargely based on DS measured over bark (DSoB). Studies show that bark thickness (BT), a factor of DSoB, varies intra-species and across ecosystemsas a response to fire history and other ecological factors. This raises concerns about the reliance on generic, DSoB-based modelsfor inventoryon regenerating clearcut plantation sites.
We hypothesize that local DS-D models calibrated with DS under bark (DSuB) better account for in-situecological variability inBT. To test this, we gathered data through destructive and non-destructive sampling of clonally propagated (CP), post-fire recovery (FR), and coppice-regenerated (CR) stands of monoculture Eucalyptus camaldulensisplantations (ECPs) in East Africa. Using the data, we employed machine learning and traditional statistical methods to calibrate DS-D models, alternately based on DSoB and DSuB as predictor variables. Through error residuals and effect sizes analyses, we compared (1) the performance of previously published, ex-situgeneric DS-D equations versus the study-derived local models, (2) the effectivenessDSoB versus DSuB for DSoBboth as the predictor and the input variables for DS-D models, and (3) assessed the statistical variation of DS-D models between post-fire recovery and non-fire impacted ECP stands.
The results showed that (1) in-situ models outperformed ex-situ equations (2) substituting DSoB with DSuB as regressors improved model accuracy, (3) DSoB substitution with DSuB as input variable did not reduce the performance of DSoB-based models. and (4) modeling of DS-D allometry post-fire recovery stand was complicated by high heterogeneity in tree diameter classes.
These findings show that recalibrating DSoB-based models with DSuB can better capture DS-D allometry due to the circumvention of local environmental effects on BT. The findings further confirm the utility of DS-D models even when the stump's bark layer is missing.
Clinical Nursing Students’ Perception of Their Mentors' Assessment Literacy: Student Competence, Self-Efficacy, and Gender Difference
Authors: Zhu Yazhou , Zhu Jinxin 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background: Mentors play a crucial role in clinical nursing education, particularly in assessing student nurses. However, if students cannot perceive their mentors’ assessment-literate practices (referred to as mentors’ assessment-literate practices hereafter), they may not effectively utilize assessment information for learning. Despite its significance, mentors’ assessment-literate practices and its antecedent factors are not well studied. This study aims to explore the mediation role of nursing students’ self-efficacy in the relationship between their competence and their perception of mentors’ assessment-literate practices, while also examining potential gender bias in mentors’ assessment-literate practices.Methods: Participants included 854 final-year nursing students (61 males, 793 females) from 10 colleges/universities in southern China. After eight months of clinical training, students reported on mentors’ assessment-literate practices, self-efficacy, internship grades, and gender. Path analysis was conducted using Mplus 8.10 to test the mediating model, and gender bias was assessed through differential item functioning analysis with Winsteps® (Version 5.6.0.0).Results: The study found a full mediation effect of self-efficacy between competence and students’ perception of their mentors’ assessment-literate practices, with a significant indirect association of .10. The path coefficient between competence and self-efficacy is .12, and between self-efficacy and perceived mentors’ assessment-literate practices is .86. Three items were identified with potential differential item functioning, suggesting mentors should offer male students more practice opportunities and female students more chances to explain.Conclusions: To enhance mentors’ assessment-literate practices, stakeholders should prioritize developing students’ self-efficacy. While improving competence is beneficial, the small indirect effect suggests other strategies are also needed. This study introduces assessment-literate practices as a key concept in nursing education, highlighting its antecedent factors and potential gender biases for better assessment practices.
Diversity Analysis and Comprehensive Evaluation of Agronomic Traits in Perennial Chinese Rice Germplasm for breeding
Authors: Liang Yongshu , Gong Junyi , Yan Yuxin , Peng Tingshen , Lu Jiuyan , Tan Lin , Li Ming , Qin Xiaojian , Nan Wenbin 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Perennial Chinese rice is a novel type of rice germplasm native to China. This study comprehensively evaluated the variation in the agronomic traits of 20 perennial Chinese rice germplasm across four different planting seasons to explore the genetic diversity of perennial Chinese rice and effectively utilize them. A total of 16 agronomic traits, including heading date, plant height, and thousand-grain weight, were investigated based on the field phenotypic values. The findings revealed significant variations among these traits with a broad range of Shannon–Wiener indices, which ranged from 1.46 to 3.33 in 2021MC, 1.49 to 1.96 in 2021RC, 1.50 to 2.10 in 2022MC, and 1.31 to 2.10 in 2022RC. The coefficients of variation among 16 traits ranged from 4.40–64.34% in 2021 MC, 5.53–74.24% in 2021RC, 3.91–56.90% in 2022MC, and 3.55–92.57% in 2022RC. The 20 germplasm were divided into five distinctive clusters in 2021MC, 2021RC, and 2022MC and six distinctive clusters in 2022RC based on the analysis of hierarchical clustering, but divided into six categories by 13 pairs of SSR primers with good polymorphism. The M-TOPSIS exhaustive evaluation method based on correlation and the principal component analysis (PCA) of 16 traits was applied for the 20 germplasm, and the top one germplasm LN1 that displayed stable field performance on agronomic traits was screened repeatedly across four different planting seasons and adapted to the ecological areas of Chongqing in Southwest China. This study will provide a reference for the screening of potential perennial rice germplasm and the further research on perennial rice genetics and breeding.
A Decision Model for Selecting Serverless Platforms
Authors: Hamza Muhammad , Farshidi Siamak , Akbar Muhammad Azeem , Capilla Rafael , Jansen Slinger , Smolander Kari 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Serverless computing has revolutionized cloud computing by abstracting the management of underlying infrastructure. This paradigm shift allows developers to concentrate on developing and optimizing application logic rather than managing the complexities of servers. Platforms such as AWS Lambda and OpenWhisk are gaining widespread adoption by enabling organizations to execute code in response to events. However, selecting the right serverless platform becomes challenging for organizations with the increasing number of serverless platforms and their diverse features. Moreover, decision-makers often lack specialized expertise in each platform, compelling them to continuously adapt to the rapidly evolving information and frequent updates. Therefore, this study presents a decision model for the serverless platforms selection problem that systematically captures knowledge and key features required for selecting serverless platforms. The model was evaluated through five real-world case studies at different software development companies. It suggests and prioritizes more than one serverless platform based on the participants' requirements. Participants reported that the model offered valuable insights, significantly simplifying the selection process while reducing the time and costs associated with decision-making. Additionally, the model enables organizations to efficiently evaluate and select serverless platforms that align with their technical requirements and strategic objectives. It also provides a foundation of reusable insights for researchers addressing future challenges in serverless computing.
The Impact of Teachers' Mental Health on Child Personality Development in Kindergarten
Authors: Mansour Soha Badawy , Dawsari Nadia , Al-Mubarak  , Al-Masaad J. , Al-Hajri  , Al-Ashoor Kh. , Al-Zahrani D. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

This study aims to explore the relationship between the mental health of female kindergarten teachers and its impact on children's personality development. This stage is crucial for children's psychological and social growth, as teachers play a vital role in shaping behaviors and identities. The research utilized a descriptive analytical approach to objectively examine social and psychological phenomena, gathering qualitative and quantitative data through a specialized questionnaire on teachers' mental health, job satisfaction, and available support mechanisms. The sample included 100 teachers from 23 public and private kindergartens, along with interviews from 10 kindergarten directors for deeper insights.
Results indicated a significant relationship between teachers' mental health and children's personality development. Children's social and emotional skills were assessed, revealing an average score of 4.2 (SD = 0.5) for social skills and 4.0 (SD = 0.6) for self-confidence. High average scores and low standard deviations suggest that children receiving positive psychological support exhibit strong social skills, indicating a healthy personality development. Moreover, teachers with high mental health had an average score of 4.5 (SD = 0.4), while those with lower mental health averaged 3.5 (SD = 0.7). The study recommends implementing psychological support programs for teachers and enhancing professional training in stress management and emotional intelligence. Creating positive work environments is essential to improving teacher well-being, ultimately enhancing the educational process and children's personality development.
Development and Validation of a Prediction Model for Chronic Postsurgical Pain in Distal Lower Limb Fracture Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wu Ying , Sun Yuning , Dang Pei , Zhou Meiyan , Xue Huanjia , Qi Le , Zhang Zhe , Wang Liwei , Zhu Yangzi , Hu Junfeng 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) is prevalent after distal lower limb fracture. To identify high-risk patients early and provide individualized treatment, we aimed to develop and validate a clinical risk model that can predict CPSP in patients followed for at least 3 months after surgery. In this retrospective cohort study, we identified patients who required open reduction and internal fixation for tibial, fibular, or ankle fractures and followed up for 3 months after surgery. We focused on variables accessible to clinicians during the perioperative period. The prediction model was developed by the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression and multivariate logistic regression. The discriminative ability, calibration, and clinical usefulness of the model were evaluated in the two cohorts.The final cohort included 818 patients: 38.39% of whom experienced CPSP, and 18.15% experienced neuropathic pain. 6 independent variables were associated with CPSP: postoperative analgesic technique, fixation type, preoperative clinical management, and NRS score on the day of the visit and postoperative day 1. The optimism-corrected area under the receiver operating curve for the development cohort and validation cohort were 0.872 and 0.838, respectively. This model demonstrated good calibration and clinical utility. This study established an effective and reliable model to predict CPSP at 3 months after surgery. A better understanding of the perioperative managements of those patients may provide important information on prediction and treatment for CPSP.
Effects of erector spinae plane block on perioperative hemodynamic stability, blood loss, and postoperative pain in transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion
Authors: Chen Wei-Cheng , Tsai Hsin-I , Kao Fu-Cheng , Tsai Tsung-Ting , Niu Chi-Chien , Chen Lih-Huei , Lai Po-Liang , Chiu Ping-Yeh 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is a promising technique for enhancing recovery and minimizing opioid use, but its impact on intraoperative blood pressure variability (IBPV) and perioperative outcomes in transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) remains unclear. This retrospective study analyzed 60 TLIF patients (30 with ESPB, 30 without) from January 2021 to June 2023. ESPB significantly reduced IBPV, as evidenced by lower mean arterial pressure differences and coefficients of variation. The ESPB group also experienced reduced intraoperative blood loss, postoperative pain, and faster nutritional recovery. While trends toward early mobility and decreased morphine consumption were observed, ESPB did not introduce additional complications. These findings suggest that ESPB is an effective strategy to optimize perioperative outcomes and enhance recovery in TLIF procedures.
Investigation of Mechanical Properties and Performance of Automotive Brake Pads
Authors: Essam Mahmoud A. , Abdeltawab Noha M. , Shash Ahmed Y. , El-Sayed Mostafa M. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

In this work, three composite formulations BP1, BP2, and BP3 are developed and tested in order to examine the wear characteristics of automotive brake pads. Each composite uses powder metallurgy to combine performance optimized materials, such as graphite, and powdered materials as suitable reinforcements. Under various pressure conditions, the brake pad samples' wear rate, hardness, braking force, noise, vibration, and coefficient of friction were all examined. Particularly at high pressures, BP1 showed greater braking force and frictional effectiveness; however, this came at the expense of increased wear and noise. With moderate noise, vibration, and wear resistance, BP2 provided a well-balanced characteristic. While having less friction and braking force, BP3 demonstrated the lowest wear rate and the least amount of noise, which makes it a good choice for applications that value longevity and quieter operation. According to the results, choosing the best brake pad composition relies on the particular performance needs, with BP1 being best suited for high-force applications and BP3 with a longer lifetime and less noise.
Physiotherapy Protocol to Reduce the Evolution Time of Axillary Web Syndrome in Women Post-Breast Cancer Surgery: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
Authors: Rubiño Jesús Baltasar González , Martín-Valero Rocío , Viñolo-Gil Maria Jesús 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Objective: To reduce the evolution time of axillary web syndrome in women who have undergone breast cancer surgery.
Methods: A prospective, randomized, single-blind clinical trial was conducted on 46 post breast cancer surgery patients from October 2021 to September 2024, in a single university hospital with painful Axillary Web Syndrome that restricts arm mobility. The intervention consisted of stretching combined with manual therapy and scar massage to release adhesion and lymphatic cord during 15 physiotherapy sessions of 30 minutes duration each. The main outcome measures were: pain, evaluated with VAS and arm ROM, evaluated with goniometry.
Results: Significant differences were detected in pain and in range of motion. The effect of the intervention varied over time with 95% confidence interval (risk alpha 0.05) and a statistical power of 90% (risk beta 0.1). Comparisons between Control and Intervention Groups showed significant statistical and clinical differences in favour of Intervention Group after 30, 60 and 90 days of intervention at follow-ups for all measured parameters.
Conclusion: The results suggested that stretching combined with scar massage and manipulative tissue release techniques reduce the evolution time of axillary web syndrome. The physiotherapy technique described in this article could be the technique of choice for this surgical sequela.
Trial Registration:ClinicalTrials.gov Registry (NTC05115799) and the approval of the Andalucía Ethics Committee (PEIBA code 1909-N1-21, reg. number 171.21).