bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Expanding Industrial Applications of Na-GCN: A Robust Catalyst for Continuous Biodiesel Production
Authors: kim Sung Eun , Keun Kim Deog , Lee Kwan Young , Kim Hak Joo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Conventional homogeneous catalysts exhibit rapid reaction kinetics and affordability but face significant challenges, including the cumbersome separation of catalysts, complexities in product purification, and the generation of wastewater. In this regard, Na-GCN was previously developed as an effective heterogeneous catalyst for transesterification. To advance the industrial application of these catalysts, it is essential to incorporate a continuous production system and high-quality feedstock. Fixed bed reactors offer the advantage of simple operation and have been widely utilized in continuous biodiesel production. In this study, Na-GCN was applied to the transesterification of waste oils in a continuous fixed bed reactor. Various reaction conditions, including temperature, retention time, and the oil-to-methanol ratio, were compared and optimized. The transesterification of waste oil simulant, waste cooking oil, and waste food oil was conducted under the optimized conditions. The FAME content was measured using gas chromatography equipped with a flame ionization detector and HP-INNOWax, following an internal standard method.
Notably, FAME yields exceeding 90% were maintained for 100 hours of continuous operation using Na-GCN and waste cooking oil. The reaction system also demonstrated enhanced stability over 100 hours, even when processing waste food oil with high levels of impurities.
Materialities and memories of the Spanish Civil War: an approach to Bilbao’s Iron Belt through digital humanities
Authors: Cantera Tania González , Campillo Xavier Rubio 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

War heritage memorialisation is a complex process because of the traumatic nature of warfare. One paradigmatic example is the mythic Iron Belt, a fortified line defending Bilbao during the Spanish Civil War. Over the years, it has become a political instrument in disseminating different war visions. The large scale of industrial warfare is an added challenge: a complex fortification as the Iron Belt may extend over kilometres, thus displaying diverse memorialisation dynamics.
Our work tackles these challenges by deploying a novel Digital Humanities framework designed to record, study, and interpret 4 areas of the Iron Belt archaeological remains. The framework defines a geospatial database model to be analysed using Geographical Information Systems and Data Visualization techniques. Results suggest divergent heritage managements with a markedly local character due to the political, economic, and social background. Local entities and associations also play a leading role as pioneers in initiating these processes.
Astragalus mongholicus and Hedyotis diffusa Willd Inhibit Cell Proliferation by Attenuating the miR-582–3p-p27 Signaling Pathway in LUAD
Authors: Sun Haipeng , Xu Lufan , Liu Siyuan , Ma Ting 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Previous studies conducted by the same group of researchers found that Traditional Chinese Medicine Astragalus mongholicus Bunge and Hedyotis diffusa Willd (A-H pair) significantly suppressed the cell proliferation of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). MicroRNAs are considered promising candidates for cancer diagnosis and treatment. This study focused on miR-582-3p as the primary subject of investigation to explore the mechanism by which A-H inhibits cell proliferation through miR-582-3p.
Methods
The overexpressing and silencing miR-582-3p cell models were established by using lentiviral transfection technology. CCK-8 assay (24 h, 48 h, 72 h) and clone formation assay (1 w) were employed to detect the proliferation of A549 cells. Moreover, flow cytometry analysis (24 h) was performed to detect the cell cycle. Western blotting (WB) and a luciferase reporter assay were also used to measure the expression of cell cycle-related proteins and verify the direct interaction between miR-582-3p and p27, respectively. The LV-miR-582-3p inhibitor + shRNA-p27 stable A549 cells were constructed in the same manner to repeat the above-mentioned procedure. The CCK-8 assay was conducted to assess the effects of various concentrations of A-H on the proliferation of A549 cells. A-H-containing serum was prepared to intervene in LV-miR-582-3p and mimic A549 cells. Subsequently, the same procedure was repeated, as described earlier.
Results
Results indicated a direct interaction between miR-582-3p and p27. Furthermore, miR-582-3p was found to enhance the proliferation of A549 cells by regulating cell cycle-related proteins, specifically p27. It was also observed that A-H-containing serum inhibited the proliferation of A549 cells through the miR-582-3p-p27 signaling pathway.
Conclusion
The study findings revealed the underlying molecular mechanisms of miR-582-3p in the development and prognosis of A549 LUAD cells. In addition, A-H inhibited LUAD proliferation through the miR-582-3p-p27 signaling pathway. These findings may provide a new understanding of the use of Chinese medicine in treating lung cancer.
Development of the First Version of ICF Core Set for Dysphagia Assessment
Authors: Li Jianjiao , Cai Simin , Jian Chuyao , Zhang Ziyu , Wang Xuejie , Li Yushan , Yang Qinglu , Zhao Shaofeng 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Dysphagia is a complex condition that affects individuals with various diagnoses, leading to complications that severely impact quality of life and mental well-being. Despite its prevalence, few assessment tools based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) are tailored to dysphagia. This study aims to develop an ICF core set specific to dysphagia assessment. A literature review identified 70 ICF candidate categories. Twenty dysphagia experts completed a three-round Delphi survey, rating the importance of each category on a 5-point Likert scale. The experts' authority coefficient (Cr) evaluated the reliability of their input. Consensus was assessed through Spearman’s rank correlation and the coefficient of variation. Categories with a high consensus and a mean score > 4.0 in the third round were selected. The final ICF core set included 14 categories: 9 for bodily functions, 3 for bodily structures, and 2 for activities and participation. This ICF core set serves as a foundational step toward creating a standardized outcome measurement tool, improving clinical practice and advancing research in dysphagia assessment.
Personalized bone organoid using iPSC-derived cells for clinically relevant applications
Authors: Gao Qi , Teissier Victoria , Zhu Wenjuan , Makarcyzk Meagan , Shinohara Issei , Murayama Masatoshi , Susuki Yosuke , Chow Simon , Bruce Bunnell , Wu Joy , Lin Hang , Goodman Stuart 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)-based modeling potentially recapitulates the pathology and mechanisms more faithfully than cell line models and general animal models. Utilizing iPSC-derived cells for personalized bone formation research offers a powerful tool to better understand the role of individual differences in bone health and disease and provide more precise information for personalized bone regeneration therapies. Here we generated iPSC-derived mesenchymal progenitor cells (iMPCs), endothelial cells (iECs), and macrophages (iMØ), from different donors. Cellular markers, pluripotency properties, and immune regulatory properties were investigated. To replicate bone regeneration, we utilize different iPSC models and co-cultured three distinct cell types (iMPCs, iECs, and iMØ) in a 3D in vitro model derived from the same donor. Cells from different donors exhibited patient-specific characteristics and different regenerative capacities. Our study suggests that cells differentiated from iPSCs can be used to anticipate the effectiveness of cell-based therapies for personalized tissue regeneration.
Functional Dysphagia in a Patient with Severe Weight Loss and Multiple Psychiatric Diagnoses: A Case Report
Authors: Fu Daniel , Daichang Cathy , Jarmon Eric 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Functional dysphagia is a rare and complex disorder that presents diagnostic difficulties, particularly when psychiatric comorbidities are involved. This report discusses a unique case that underscores the importance of a thorough, multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis of this disorder.
Case Presentation:
A 45-year-old female with a history of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and prolonged grief disorder experienced five years of vomiting shortly after eating or drinking, along with the sensation of something stuck in her throat. She also reported significant weight loss. After an extensive gastrointestinal evaluation failed to reveal an organic cause, supportive psychotherapy led to a better understanding of her symptoms. Functional dysphagia was identified as the most probable diagnosis, and the patient’s receptiveness to treatment increased with therapeutic support.
Conclusions
This case illustrates the challenges of diagnosing functional dysphagia, especially in patients with coexisting psychiatric conditions. A multidisciplinary approach, integrating both psychological and medical evaluations, is crucial to achieving an accurate diagnosis and optimizing patient care.
Development of a LAMP-LFD DNA biosensor for detecting the zoonotic monogenean Dactylogyrus spp. in goldfish (Carassius auratus)
Authors: Raksaman Awika , Tejangkura Thanawan , Purivirojkul Watchariya , Chontananarth Thapana 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The genus Dactylogyrus, comprising more than 900 taxa, is an important group of ectoparasites with high host specificity that causes disease and economic loss in ornamental fish. Dactylogyrus attaches to the host’s gills, causing respiratory disorders and potentially leading to fish mortality. This study was performed to develop a detection method for Dactylogyrus spp. infection in goldfish (Carassius auratus) using a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay coupled with a lateral flow dipstick (LFD). The LAMP-LFD assay was performed in 75 minutes under isothermal conditions at 65°C. It demonstrated high specificity with no cross-amplification with related parasites or their definitive hosts. The sensitivity of the LAMP-LFD assay was 3 pg /µL for three Dactylogyrus species. Clinical sample examination showed that the accuracy of the LAMP-LFD assay was consistent with that of microscopy. In summary, the established LAMP-LFD assay targeting the 28S rDNA gene is a rapid and convenient method for detecting Dactylogyrus spp. in goldfish, aiding in parasite prevention, enhancing outbreak surveillance, and addressing veterinary health issues in the ornamental fish business.
Metabolic engineering of Selenocysteine Biosynthesis and Insertion Pathway in Lactococcus lactis
Authors: Peng Jing-Jing , Qin Yao , Lu Liang-Hua , Yue Shi-Yang , Shi Ping , Wang Ling-Yu , Liu Chen-Xing , Fang Yu-Hui , Gao Tian-Tian , Pei Xiao-Dong , Yu Fu-Tian , Huang Xin-bi , Liu Xiao-Ling , Wang Cheng-Hua 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Se-enriched lactic acid bacteria (LAB) exist unclear metabolic flow, unstable composition of selenium spectrum and low selenoprotein content such prominent problems caused by complex metabolic pathway and non-specific incorporation of selenium currently. Accordingly, this study reports how to introduce the firstly proposed Selenocysteine Biosynthesis and Insertion Pathway (SBIP) into Lactococcus lactis (L. lactis) and specifically guide selenium metabolic flow to direct synthesis of specific selenoprotein with employed multi-level metabolic engineering strategies. In result, the integration of these key factors turned out to facilitate the establishment of SBIP in NZ9000: SelA, SelB, SelC, SelD, GshF and FDH from NZ9000/SBIP up-regulated 8.01, 19.03, 925982.32, 34.51, 31879.16 and 28367.04 multiples compared with NZ9000/p-p; FI/OD600 of NZ9000/SBIP-sfGFP was 362.25 ± 0.43; FDH enzyme activity of NZ9000/SBIP reached 28.11 ± 0.12 mU/mg, and GshF 219.47 ± 0.79 mU/mg under the optimal expression. This first successful implementation of directed synthesis of selenoprotein FDH would indicate a whole new direction to supply Sec-contained proteins through biosynthesis in LAB factory.
BHMT Prevents Renal Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury via Suppressing ROS-induced Apoptosis by Targeting NOX4
Authors: Guan Han , Hu Hao , Chen Xingyu , Mao Likai , Fang Fang , Reng Rui , Chen Zhijun 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) remains a major contributor to acute kidney injury (AKI), primarily characterized by excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production leading to cellular apoptosis. Through gene expression omnibus (GEO) analysis, we identified betaine-homocysteine S-methyltransferase (BHMT) as significantly downregulated in both ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) and hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) models. Our study employed RT-qPCR and western blot analyses to assess RNA and protein expression, while cellular injury was evaluated through MTT assay, flow cytometry, and ROS-related assays. BHMT overexpression significantly attenuated ROS generation and cellular apoptosis in both H/R and I/R conditions. Mechanistic investigations revealed that BHMT enhanced S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) synthesis, subsequently increasing DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) activity. This enhancement promoted DNMT1/DNMT3B-mediated methylation of the NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) promoter, effectively suppressing NOX4 transcription and expression. Rescue experiments confirmed that BHMT's protective effects against H/R-induced cell apoptosis and ROS generation were mediated through NOX4 downregulation. Our findings demonstrate that BHMT ameliorates renal IRI by suppressing ROS-stimulated apoptosis via NOX4 regulation, suggesting its potential as both a biomarker and therapeutic target for IRI-induced AKI.
A preliminary study on digital quantification of ocular attributes in cattle as potential non- invasive predictors of anemia
Authors: Lashari Mushtaq Hussain , Abdullah Anna , Nazir Fouzia , Iqbal Asma , Afzal Muhammad Abrar , Farooq Umer , Idris Musadiq , Khan Musarrat Abbas , Shahzad Faisal , Azam Mahad , Shahzad Khawar Ali , Fouad Dalia , Ataya Farid Shokry , Nasreen Shagufta 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Various non-invasive indicators such as ocular attributes have been tested and validated in respect to assessment of anemia and vitamin A deficiency in human medical sciences with promising results. However, regarding veterinary diagnostics/prognostics, there is a paucity of literature for photometric assessment of anemia in cattle. The present preliminary study is the first account of digital quantification of various ocular attributes in cattle (n = 36) carried out with an objective to unearth the potential of these attributes (RGB analysis and morphometry of eye balls, and color of palpebral conjunctiva) as non-invasive predictors of RBC count, hemoglobin (Hb) and packed cell volume (PCV).
Results
Results showed that green (r = 0.571), blue (r = 0.706), yellow (r = 0.624), black (r = 0.712) and whiteness (r = 0.778) of cattle eye were positively and significantly (P ≤ 0.05) correlated to Hb with an adjusted r-square value of 0.67, indicating 67.0% predictability for overall model. Similarly, red (r= -0.536), green (r= -0.565), magenta (r= -0.409), yellow (r= -0.563), black (r = 0.700) and whiteness (r= -0.805) were highly correlated (P ≤ 0.05) to Hb with a strong overall model predictability of 67.6%. The associations with RBC count were, however, weaker and non-significant (23% predictability).
Conclusions
It is concluded that various ocular attributes of cattle, particularly blue, yellow, black, whiteness and lightness, could serve as non-invasive indicators of Hb and PCV, assisting in detecting of anemia. The palpebral conjunctiva color chart developed through this preliminary data could function as an on-field point-of-care testing (POCT) tool for predicting Hb and PCV levels in cattle. Future research should involve larger sample sizes and explore additional non-invasive indicators for use in veterinary diagnostics/prognostics.
Neuroprotective effects of the Sodium Nitroprusside against Chronic Kidney Disease Induced-Cognitive Disorder in rats: Investigating the Involvement of Cystathionine Beta- Synthase in Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Hamidizad Zeinab , Kadkhodaee Mehri , Kianian Farzaneh , Ranjbaran Mina , Heidari Fatemeh , Seifi Behjat 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a conceivable new risk factor for cognitive disorder and dementia. Uremic toxicity, oxidative stress, and peripheral-central inflammation have been considered important mediators of CKD-induced nervous disorders. Nitric oxide (NO) is a retrograde neurotransmitter in synapses, and has vital roles in intracellular signaling in neurons. This research aims to determine the effectiveness of NO in CKD-induced cognitive deficits by considering the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway and the important roles of cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS, H2S producing enzyme). Forty rats were divided into four experimental groups: sham, five-sixth (5/6) nephrectomy (CKD), CKD + NO donor (Sodium nitroprusside, SNP), CKD + SNP and a CBS inhibitor (amino-oxy acetic acid, AOAA). To assess the neurocognitive abilities, eleven weeks after 5/6Nx, behavioral tests (Novel object recognition test, Passive avoidance test, and Barnes maze test) were done. Twelfth week after 5/6Nx, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (sCr) levels, as well as the nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression levels and neuronal injury in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex were assessed. As predicted, the levels of BUN and sCr and neuronal injury in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex increased in CKD rats as well as 5/6Nx induced reduction of Nrf2/HO-1 pathway activity. Moreover, CKD leads to cognitive disorder and memory loss. SNP treatment significantly improved Nrf2/HO-1 pathways and neuronal injury as well as enhanced learning and memory ability in CKD rats. However, ameliorating effects of SNP on cognitive disorder and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway activity were nullified by CBS inhibitor and H2S reduction. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that many biological effects of NO are probably mediated by CBS activity and endogenous H2S levels.
Trial of labour after caesarean (TOLAC): analysing predictors and outcome of failure in a multi-ethnic population
Authors: Shittu Saheed , Athar Sufia , Koujan Farhan , Olukade Tawa , Al-Maslamani Kholode , Alansari Lolwa 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
The global increase in Caesarean section (CS) rate can be reduced by increasing the uptake of trial of labour after caesarean (TOLAC). This study aims to evaluate the success rate and risk factors for failure and the delivery outcome of women who attempted TOLAC in a maternity unit.
Materials and Methods
This retrospective cohort study was conducted on pregnant women with one previous CS who attempted TOLAC between November 2022 to October 2023 in Al Wakrah Hospital, Qatar. The required data were collected from the women’s electronic records and were analysed. Patients who had successful vaginal delivery were classified as successful TOLAC group and those who attempted TOLAC but had a repeat CS due to obstetric reasons were classified into the failed TOLAC group. The success rate and outcomes of the two groups were determined and univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the factors associated with failed TOLAC.
Results
In total, 341 women with one previous CS who attempted TOLAC had their charts reviewed retrospectively. The overall failure rate was 26.1% (89/341). Five women were diagnosed with scar rupture. All of them had good maternal and neonatal outcomes. None had hysterectomy. The women in the failed TOLAC group had significantly higher incidence of scar rupture and neonatal intensive care unit admissions. The rate of scar dehiscence, major postpartum haemorrhage, infectious morbidity and low Apgar score were also higher in the failed group but not statistically significant. There was no maternal or neonatal death. Multiple regression analysis showed that women of non-Arab ethnicity, no previous vaginal delivery, inter-delivery interval less than 2 years, induction of labour and birth weight > 4000g were risk factors for TOLAC failure
Conclusion
The study suggested that TOLAC was safe and effective in reducing CS rate in our multi-ethnic population. Failure of TOLAC is associated with increased maternal and neonatal complications and can be predicted. Early identification of failure to progress and fetal distress and prompt intervention will minimize sequelae.
Sevoflurane versus propofol on postoperative cognitive dysfunction in patients undergoing cardiac surgery under cardiopulmonary bypass: a comparative analysis
Authors: Zhao Na , Qin Rui , Liu Bin , Zhang Dongmei 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This is a comparative analysis of the effects of sevoflurane (SEV) versus propofol (PRO) on postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) in patients undergoing cardiac surgery (CS) under cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). We collected and grouped 113 patients undergoing CS with CPB from March 2018 to May 2021, in which PRO group (n = 58) received PRO intervention and SEV group (n = 55) received SEV intervention. Baseline data, anesthesia effects (CPB duration, anesthesia time, respiratory recovery time, and anesthesia recovery time), Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA), POCD, neurological function indexes (neuron-specific enolase [NSE], S-100β, and matrix metalloproteinase [MMP] 9), and serum inflammatory indexes (interleukin [IL]-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α) were comparatively analyzed. The PRO group had the same CPB duration as the SEV group but significantly shorter anesthesia time, respiratory recovery time and anesthesia recovery time. In addition, the postoperative MoCA score in the PRO group reduced markedly compared with the baseline, but still higher than that in the SEV group; the POCD rate was significantly lower compared with the SEV group, and NSE, S-100β, MMP9, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α were elevated than the baseline but still obviously lower than the SEV group. This shows that PRO is more effective than SEV in preventing POCD in patients undergoing CS under CPB, with better anesthetic effects and superior performance than SEV in protecting nerve function and inhibiting serum inflammation.