bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of different needle gauge blood collection sets (23G/25G) in aged patients
Authors: Rosada Adrian , Friedrich Katharina , Spieß Eileen , Prpic Monika , Müller-Werdan Ursula , Jahić Amir , Kappert Kai 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Aged patients are often characterized by difficult blood sampling conditions. Smaller needle gauge (G) may be beneficial for venous access and reduced pain perception, however, potentially at the expense of lower blood quality for laboratory measurements. We systematically compared two blood collection sets with different outer but equal inner diameters; different needle tips, and retract mechanisms in aged patients (Safety-Lok™, 23G, SL vs. UltraTouch™ Push Button, 25G, UT-PB) regarding clinical aspects and laboratory measurements.

Methods
Clinical examination and questionnaires were used in an aged cohort (n=161, average age=81.6 years), to determine characteristics of venipuncture, the phlebotomist’s assessment of blood draw including level of difficulty, and patient’s pain perception with either one or both blood collection sets. Sample quality was evaluated by laboratory analytics considering 13 parameters.

Results
SL, UT-PB, or both were used in 89 (55 %), 72 (45 %) or 36 (22 %) patients. The handling of the blood collection sets was perceived slightly easier for UT-PB compared to SL by the phlebotomist (−30 %, p=0.038). There was no significant difference in other parameters of the phlebotomist’s assessment or patients’ perception of blood collection. There was no clinically relevant difference between both sets in any of the laboratory measurements, including potassium and hemolysis index.

Conclusions
Clinical use of the UT-PB compared with SL in aged patients was associated with slight advantages of UT-PB, e.g. in the handling comfort for the phlebotomist. Sample quality, especially regarding hemolysis, was identical between both blood collecting sets, making its use uncritical in difficult venous conditions commonly seen in elderly patients.
Cave-dwelling oribatid mites (Acari, Oribatida) from the Dominican Republic
Authors: Ermilov Sergey G. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThirty nine species of oribatid mites (Oribatida), belonging to 29 genera and 20 families were collected from semidecayed leaves in the San Gabriel Limestone Cave, Dominican Republic. A new species of the genus Pergalumna (Galumnidae)—P. (Pergalumna) sangabrielensis n. sp.—is described.
A case-control study for psychiatric comorbidity and associative factors of gaming disorder and hazardous gaming based on ICD-11 criteria: Cognitive control, emotion regulation, and reinforcement sensitivity
Authors: Yen Ju-Yu , Király Orsolya , Griffiths Mark D. , Demetrovics Zsolt , Ko Chih-Hung 
Published: December 2024

AbstractBackground and aimsThe authors of the present study wanted to know whether the previously reported psychiatric comorbidities of internet gaming disorder (IGD) based on DSM-5 criteria were also more prevalent among gaming disorder (GD) or hazardous gaming (HG) based on ICD-11 criteria. Therefore, the present case-control study evaluated the psychiatric comorbidities and associative factors of GD and HG based on ICD-11 criteria.MethodsA sample of 60 individuals with GD, 45 with HG, and 120 controls were assessed with an ICD-11 criteria-based diagnostic interview along with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), depressive disorder, and social anxiety disorder (SAD). Participants also completed Conners' Continuous Performance Test (CCPT), Dickman's Impulsivity Inventory, the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire, and the Behavior Inhibition System and Behavior Approach System Scales.ResultsGD was associated with ADHD, depressive disorder, and GAD. ADHD was the most associative comorbidity of HG. Depressive disorder was associated with GD relative to HG. Moreover, individuals with lower reappraisal, higher aversion sensitivity, and impulsivity were more likely to be diagnosed with GD. Those with higher fun-seeking were more likely to be diagnosed with HG.ConclusionIn the present study, ADHD was the psychiatric comorbidity most significantly associated with GD, followed by depressive disorder and GAD, as previously reported for IGD. ADHD was also associated with HG. Depressive disorder was more associated with GD compared to HG. Intervention for HG and GD should be tailored by the consideration of the clients' psychiatric comorbidity as well as their reappraisal skills, impulsivity, aversion sensitivity, and fun-seeking.
Implementación de un Sistema de Innovación para la Creación de la Unidad de I+D+i en LIQUITECH SAS: Estrategias de Alistamiento y Asesoría Especializada para la Mejora de la Eficacia Empresarial
Authors: Amar Sepúlveda Paola Andrea , Naranjo Africano Gloria María , Pérez Díaz Kevin Andrés 
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: Definir las bases para la implementación sistema de innovación y la creación de la unidad de I+D+i en LIQUITECH SAS. Método: se implementó una metodología tipo mixta y se usó un enfoque de investigación-acción que permitió una intervención directa en LIQUITECH SAS. Se combinaron métodos cualitativos y cuantitativos: los primeros se utilizaron para analizar los procesos internos y la cultura organizacional, mientras que los segundos sirvieron para medir el impacto de la implementación y recopilar datos objetivos. Resultados: La empresa mejoró indicadores en materia de investigación, superando la línea base en estrategia (5.25), procesos (5.78) y organización (6.50), destacándose especialmente en articulación con un resultado de 6.86. Sin embargo, aunque ha progresado en aprendizaje (5.71), sigue ligeramente por debajo del promedio del sector (5.79). Conclusiones: la necesidad de integrar estrategia y cultura en la innovación de LIQUITECH SAS, destacando la búsqueda de financiación y el fortalecimiento de alianzas. Estas acciones son esenciales para mejorar la competitividad y sostenibilidad de la empresa.
Book Review: Paulo Basta et al. (Eds.) Poh&atilde; &ntilde;ana: &Ntilde;anombarete, tekoha, Guarani ha Kaiow&aacute; arandu rehegua
Authors: Essam Alice 
Published: December 2024

The publication under review is the product of six-year study initiated by non-indigenous researchers at the public health school within Brazil’s biomedical sciences research institute Fiocruz, in collaboration with indigenous Guaraní-Kaiowá people. The research journey takes the epidemiologists into the Guaraní-Kaiowá community, where they realise that a deeper understanding of traditional healing approaches is needed. Through this engagement, the project of documenting the medicinal plants used by these peoples is born, responding to the political struggles of the Guaraní-Kaiowá, who have been expelled from their ancestral lands. The researchers come to see the medicinal plants as 'not just plants, but also plants', as they gain appreciation for the metaphysical role of plants within Guaraní-Kaiowá cosmology. The work is an interesting tentative exploration of working across languages, cultures, epistemologies, ontologies and cosmologies, and, although not directly intending to, brings the question of ontology to the study of ethnobotany. In this way, it provides a relevant case study for Science and Technology Studies.
Effect of Methanolic Extract of Aloe vera on Immunomodulatory Activity in Wistar Rats
Authors: Nirala Ramesh Kumar , Raj Preety , Anjana Kumari , Kumar Pramod , Kumari Rashmi Rekha , . Archana , Choudhary Govind Kumar , Azad Chandra Sekhar 
Published: December 2024

Background: To evaluate the Immunomodulatry activity of methanolic extract of Aloe vera in Wistar rats. Methods: Eighteen clinically healthy wistar rats were divided into three groups consisting of six rats in each group. Group I treated with normal saline, Group II with 0.8% SRBC as antigen 5th day as sensitizing and 10th day as challenging dose, Group III antigen with methanolic extract of Aloe vera Orally @ 200mg/kg.body wt. consecutive for 5 days during sensitizing and challenging dose. The immunological parameters were evaluated with haemagglutination (HA) test for humoural immune response (HIR) whereas delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) for evaluating cell mediated immune response (CMIR). DTH was assessed by injecting 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNCB) in the foot paw region as well as by absolute lymphocyte count. Result: Methanolic extract of Aloe vera gel showed significant effect on humoural immune response as assessed by HA test. Antibody titre were found to be significantly (p less than 0.01) higher in Aloe vera treated group (1.35402 ± 0.205) as compared to antigen treated (0.60201±0.076) group.DTH assessed by injecting 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNCB) mitogen was also found to be significantly (p less than 0.01) higher in aloe vera treated group (3.012 ± 0.15* mm) as compared to antigen treated (0.482 ± 0.04 mm). Methanolic extract of Gel of Aloe vera exhibited immunomodulatory activity with respect to cell mediated immune response in wistar rats.
Structural insights into the recognition of RALF peptides by FERONIA receptor kinase during Brassicaceae Pollination
Authors: Bhalla Hemal , Sudarsanam Karthik , Srivast Ashutosh , Sankaranarayanan Subramanian 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Ensuring species integrity and successful reproduction is pivotal for the survival of angiosperms. Members of Brassicaceae family employ a “lock and key” mechanism involving stigmatic (sRALFs) and pollen RALFs (pRALFs) binding to FERONIA, a Catharanthus roseus receptor-like kinase 1-like (CrRLK1L) receptor, to establish a prezygotic hybridization barrier. In the absence of compatible pRALFs, sRALFs bind to FERONIA, inducing a lock state for pollen tube penetration. Conversely, compatible pRALFs act as a key, facilitating successful fertilization. Competing pRALFs reduce the sRALFs binding to FERONIA in a dose-dependent manner, enabling pollen tube penetration. Despite its crucial role in Brassicaceae hybridization, the structural basis of this binding remains elusive owing to the highly flexible nature of RALF peptides. Using advanced structural modeling techniques and flexible peptide molecular docking, this study reveals that pRALFs and sRALFs bind to negatively charged pockets in FERONIA with varying binding affinities. Our study unveils the structural basis of this binding, shedding light on the molecular mechanism underlying hybridization barriers in Brassicaceae.
Integrated Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Analysis of Anthocyanin Metabolism in Wheat Pericarp
Authors: Wang Jiao , sun Lei , Jiao Bo , Zhao Pu , Xu Tianyun , Gu Sa , Huo Chenmin , Pang Jianzhou , Zhou Shuo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Wheat seeds display different colors due to the types and contents of anthocyanins, and which is closely related to anthocyanin metabolism. In this study, a transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis between white and purple color wheat pericarp aimed to explore some key genes and metabolites involved in anthocyanin metabolism.
Results
Two wheat cultivars, a white seed cultivar Shiluan02-1 and purple seed cultivar Hengzi151 were used to identify the variations in differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially accumulated flavonoids (DAFs). Based on metabolomic data, 314 metabolites and 191 DAFs were identified. Chalcone, flavonol, pro-anthocyanidin and anthocyanidin were the most differentially accumulated flavonoid compounds in Hengzi151. And, 2610 up-regulated and 2668 down-regulated DEGs were identified according to transcriptomic data. The results showed that some structural genes in the anthocyanin synthesis pathway were prominently activated in Hengzi151, such as PAL, CAD, CHS and so on. Transcription factors (TFs) of MYB, bHLH, WD40 and some other TFs probably involved in regulating anthocyanin biosynthesis were identified. Some genes from hormone synthetic and signaling pathway that may participate in regulating anthocyanin biosynthesis also have been identified.
Conclusions
Our results provide valuable information on the candidate genes and metabolites involved in the anthocyanin metabolism in wheat pericarp.
Identification and verification of anoikis-related genes immune infiltration characterization based on machine learning for epilepsy
Authors: Zeng Haoxuan , Bao Shilin , Zhou Wenbin , Tan Tian , Zhou Xianju , Chen Xinhao 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Epilepsy is a significant neurological disorder characterized by a complex etiology. Understanding the molecular mechanisms, notably those implicating the immune system and anoikis, is crucial for developing targeted therapies against epilepsy.
Methods: Firstly, two epilepsy-related transcriptomic datasets (GSE143272 and GSE4290) were selected from the GEO database; then, thedifferentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. Focusing on anoikis in epilepsy, we collected anoikis-related genes (ARGs). Bioinformatics analysis and machine learning were employed for comprehensive analysis, and epilepticus mice were used to in vivo experimental validation of analytical results.
Results: A total of 3,525 DEGs from GSE143272 and GSE4290 datasets were identified, and a total of 49 ARGs were obtained. The five key differentially expressed ARGs (DE-ARGs) were screened through machine learning analysis, including ANKRD13C, PIK3R1, BSG, CEACAM6, and BRMS1; These DE-ARGs emerged as potential biomarkers for epilepsy and were involved in various signaling pathways and immune cell activities, and results were further experimentally validated. Besides, the risk score model based on the DE-ARGs demonstrated high diagnostic efficiency; moreover, connectivity map database analysis suggested MPEP, LY-341495, and MDL-28170 as potential therapeutic agents.
Conclusion: This study identified the five ARGs as potential therapeutic targets, highlighting the role of anoikis in epilepsy pathogenesis. Our result provides a novel insight into the molecular landscape of epilepsy and paves the way for further exploration and the development of more effective treatment strategies.
Transmission of dengue among various ethnic groups of Palwal District, Haryana
Authors: Sharma Rajan , Deb Roumi , Dixit Shikha , Kumar Preet , Bhandari Deepika 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Vector-borne diseases are considered a major public health problem. Dengue is considered one of the major vector-borne diseases because it is transmitted primarily by the Aedes mosquitoes, which spread the virus through their bites. Recent studies suggest the infectious disease burden in the communities.
Objective: To assess the socio-demographic and cultural practices of various ethnic groups responsible for dengue transmission in the community.
Methodology: In this comprehensive study, cluster sampling and observational methods were used to assess the transmission of dengue in the three clusters of the Palwal District, Haryana, India. A total of 21 visits were made in the randomly selected 150 households of all the clusters and various observations have been made based on socio-demographic and cultural practices of ethnic groups.
Results: The study revealed that ethnic groups of cluster-1 have Pucca houses but for clusters- 2 & 3 majority of the population have Kutcha houses. Furthermore, it has also been found that participants of cluster-1 stored water in a closed vessel but in cluster-2 & 3 water was stored in the open vessel and all the participants of three clusters have knowledge about dengue except the females of cluster-3.
Conclusion: Many risk factors were identified as the cause of the spread of the disease and risk factors in the community which highlights the individual behavior, socio-economic, cultural and environmental factors that help in promoting the public health interventions aimed at improving the well-being of community members.
Effects of delayed mating on the fecundity, fertility, and longevity of Assara inouei Yamanaka
Authors: He Chao , Li Ying-Li , Shen Deng-Rong , Zhang Rui , Liu Na , Yin Li-Hong 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Assara inouei Yamanaka is an important pest of pomegranate fruits in Southwest China. The effects of different ages (0, 1, 3, 5, and 7 days after emergence) and sexes (females, males, or both sexes) of adults delayed mating on their fecundity, fertility, and longevity were studied. The results showed that when delayed mating for 1 day, regardless of sex, the mating rate and number of eggs laid per female were significantly greater than delayed mating for 0 day. Subsequently, with the extension of delayed mating days, the mating rate, oviposition period, number of eggs laid per female, and egg hatching rate decreased gradually, the mating duration decreased initially and then increased gradually, and the longevity of male and female increased gradually, while there was no significant change in the pre-oviposition period. Moreover, the negative effects of delayed mating on the reproduction were higher in both sexes than in males, with females being intermediate between them. Overall, A. inouei mating on the second day after emergence is optimal for successful reproduction. Delayed mating prolongs adult longevity, but has a negative impact on female reproduction, and the extent of this impact is significantly correlated with the age of adults delayed mating, with a sex effect. The interactions of delayed age and sex mainly affected the mating behavior of adults, but had little effect on their longevity and oviposition.
A Fair Multi-Party Contract Signing Scheme Based on Off-Chain Protocols and On-Chain Smart Contracts
Authors: Jiang Rong , Li Yulin , Pu Xuetao , Wang Xueke , Niu Wenyu , Song Zhiming 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The adoption of electronic contracts has notably improved the efficiency of contract signing, especially in cross-border trade. However, it raises concerns about security and fairness. Traditional processes are susceptible to forgery and bias, and current solutions, while focusing on security, may foster unfairness due to potential third-party collusion. Blockchain-based methods, despite providing traceability and immutability, risk exposing private data. This paper introduces a multi-party contract signing model that combines off-chain protocols with on-chain smart contracts. Shared key encryption and a signature aggregator ensure privacy and reduce communication overhead. Smart contracts enforce fairness by verifying signatures and applying penalties. This hybrid approach maintains scalability without increasing on-chain complexity. Simulation results confirm that the model achieves fairness, security, and efficiency.
Understanding System Interdependencies in Sustainable Paper Production from Residue Grass biomass: Insights from Fuzzy Cognitive Mapping
Authors: Ding Zhengqiu , Grundmann Philipp 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This research investigates the pulp and paper industry's transition to sustainability by valorizing unused roadside and natural grasses for paper production. Large-scale production from residual grass poses multifaceted challenges, requiring collaboration across stakeholders, from biomass collection to manufacturing. To understand key drivers and barriers within this complex system, experts from various fields, including local farmers, researchers, policymakers, and industry executives were interviewed, leading to the development of a Fuzzy Cognitive Map (FCM). The analysis explores various scenarios to assess how socio-economic, technological, and political factors influence the transition to low-carbon practices. These scenarios highlight the effects of varying levels of technology development, economic conditions, and policy support on the transition's progress and outcomes. Results show that the system is highly sensitive to shifts in socio-economic and political conditions. Political interventions play a crucial role, especially during energy crises and increased public demand for sustainable solutions. Grass-based paper production is seen as a viable pathway, but challenges such as the economic feasibility of emerging technologies remain. We recommend targeted policies to improve the economic viability of grass-based products and optimize biomass allocation between energy and bio-based products, ensuring a more balanced and sustainable transition.
MiR-34a-5p promotes skeletal muscle atrophy by targeting LGR4 and the RANK/NF-κB pathway in diabetic mice
Authors: Wu Weibin , Chen Xiaojun , Chen Ai , Tang Huibin , Yu Xing , Gao Gufeng , Liu Junping , Lian Guili , Xie Liangdi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background Muscle atrophy is more common in individuals with diabetes, but research in this area is limited. This study aims to investigate the molecular mechanisms of diabetic muscle atrophy using RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) of the gastrocnemius muscle (GM).
Methods Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice were used to study muscle atrophy. Bioinformatics analyses identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and candidate miRNAs. Hub genes and miR-34a-5p were validated by RT-qPCR. The role of miR-34a-5p in the RANK/NF-κB pathway was examined using TargetScan, dual-luciferase assays, miR-34a-5p mimics, and inhibitors in C2C12 myotubes under high glucose.
Results Diabetic mice showed reduced grip strength, GM mass, and muscle fiber cross-sectional area compared to controls. Markers of muscle atrophy, Atrogin-1, and MuRF-1, were elevated in diabetic mice. RNA-Seq identified 821 DEGs related to muscle atrophy, involved in processes like ion transport, transmembrane transport, lipid response, and IL-17 signaling. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis highlighted TNFA signaling via NFKB in GM. Hub genes Foxo1, IL-1β, TLR-4, and TNF were identified. miR-34a-5p was implicated in diabetic muscle atrophy. LGR4 expression was reduced in high glucose-exposed C2C12 myotubes and diabetic mice GM, while RANK and NF-κB levels were increased. LGR4 was confirmed as a target of miR-34a-5p. miR-34a-5p mimics decreased LGR4 and increased RANK, NF-κB, Atrogin-1, and MuRF-1 levels, effects reversed by miR-34a-5p inhibitors.
Conclusion Foxo1, IL-1β, TLR-4, and TNF are key genes in diabetic muscle atrophy. miR-34a-5p targets LGR4, activating the RANK/NF-κB pathway and contributing to muscle atrophy. These findings offer potential intervention targets for diabetic muscle atrophy.