bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluating oxidative stress targeting treatments in in vitro models of preeclampsia
Authors: Afrose Dinara , Johansen Matt D. , Nikolic Valentina , Orlic Natasa Karadzov , Mikovic Zeljko , Stefanovic Milan , Cakic Zoran , Hansbro Philip M. , McClements Lana 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Preeclampsia is a complex pregnancy disorder characterized by the new onset of hypertension and organ dysfunction, often leading to significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Oxidative stress has been implicated as a critical factor in preeclampsia pathogenesis, particularly through its detrimental effects on trophoblast cells. This study explores the role of oxidative stress in trophoblast cell-based preeclampsia models and evaluates potential therapeutic strategies that can target these mechanisms.
Methods
Uric acid (UA) and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations were measured in human plasma from women with preeclampsia (n = 24) or normotensive controls (n = 14) using colorimetric assays. Custom-made first trimester trophoblast cell line, ACH-3P, was exposed to various preeclampsia-like stimuli including hypoxia (dimethyloxalylglycine or DMOG, 1mM), inflammation (TNF-α, 10ng/ml) or mitochondria dysfunction agent, Rhodamne-6G (Rho-6G, 1 µg/ml), ± aspirin (0.5mM), metformin (0.5mM), AD-01 (100nM) or resveratrol (15 µM), for 48 h. Following treatments, proliferation assay (MTT), wound scratch assay, cytometric bead assay to measure inflammation and Western blotting to determine FKBPL expression, were performed. UA and MDA concentrations were also measured in cell lysates.
Results
UA and MDA plasma concentrations were increased in preeclampsia compared to healthy controls using patient samples (UA: p = 0.06; MDA: p < 0.001); when adjusted for differences in gestational age for sample collection, MDA remained (P < 0.001) whereas UA became (p = 0.03) significantly correlated with preeclampsia. Our 2D first trimester trophoblast cell-based in vitro model, mimic the increase in UA concentration following treatment with DMOG (p < 0.0001), TNF-α (p < 0.05) or Rho-6G (p < 0.001) whereas the increase in MDA concentration was only present with DMOG (P < 0.0001) and Rho-6G (p < 0.001). Metformin was able to abrogate Rho-6G- (p < 0.0001) or TNF-α- (p < 0.01) induced increase in UA, or DMOG-induced increase in MDA (p < 0.0001). AD-01 abrogated UA increase with TNF-α (p < 0.001), and MDA increase with Rho-6G (p < 0.001). The preeclampsia-like stimuli also mimicked adverse impact on trophoblast cell proliferation, migration and inflammation, most of which were restored with either aspirin, metformin, resveratrol, or AD-01.
Conclusions
Our 2D in vitro models of preeclampsia recapitulate aspects of inappropriate placental development in preeclampsia and demonstrate therapeutic potential of repurposed treatments.
Graduation from Poverty Condition of HAOR (Seasonal Wetland) People of Bangladesh: Simultaneous Effects of Microcredits, SSNPs, Flood and COVID-19
Authors: Hossain Md Zakir , Majumder Roushni Rafa 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
The HAOR region, a 19,998 sq. km wetland ecosystem in Bangladesh's northeastern region, is renowned for its rich fishing, biodiversity, and boro-rice cultivation. However, its people are poorer due to wet monsoon seasonality and most of them opted for microcredits to meet the food insecurity situation. The study aims to investigate how poverty reduction is impacted concurrently by microcredits, social safety net programs (SSNPs), flash floods, and COVID-19.
Methods
Following a cross-sectional study design, primary data were gathered from 634 beneficiaries and 273 non-beneficiary households across 30 rural clusters in the HAOR region of Bangladesh. Using multiple binary logistic regression models, the study assessed the effects of microcredits, SSNPs, floods, and COVID-19 on poverty conditions.
Results
The hardcore poverty status of the study households was estimated based on the severe and moderate food insecurity conditions. It was found that 32.08% of households were poor (hardcore) in 2022, while it was 37.10% in 2019. According to the separate models, microcredit and SSNPs had a favorable effect on non-poverty conditions, raising non-poverty status for families receiving SSNPs and microcredit by 43% and 73%, respectively. Floods and COVID-19, on the other hand, had a detrimental effect on the graduation from hardcore poverty. According to the combined model, there was a substantial impact of microcredit status, flood catastrophes, and COVID-19 on non-poverty status. Microcredit increases the chance of not being impoverished by 58%, whereas flood and COVID-19 decrease it by 35% and 41%, respectively. It was also shown that whereas the SSNP receiving status was significant in the individual model, it was insignificant in the combined model.
Conclusion
Microcredit and SSNP can reduce the poverty of the residents of the Haor region of Bangladesh and policymakers should increase accessibility and widespread implementation of these initiatives along with resistance to flash floods.
Comparison of the Effect of Aligned and Lateral Offset Detectors on the Artifacts from Metallic Materials in the Exomass in CBCT imaging
Authors: vasegh zahra , shirian amirali , valizadeh solmaz , safi yaser , ghaffari katayoun 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background.
This study aims to compare aligned and lateral offset cone beam computed tomography detectors, regarding the artifact that is produced by metallic objects in exomass.
Methods.
In this in vitro experimental study, four CBCT devices were used, two with lateral offset detector and two with aligned detectors, in order to scan the phantom (human skull). To create the exomass, metallic objects (titanium implants, teeth with cobalt-chromium intracanal post and porcelain fused to metal crown, and teeth with amalgam buildup) were placed in three different sides in maxilla (socket of right 3rd molar, left 3rd molar, and both 3rd molars), outside the field of view. A polypropylene tube containing dipotassium phosphate was placed in the socket of right canine to represent the alveolar bone. CBCT scans were taken with canine inside the FOV. With the use of OnDemand software, circles with a 1.5 mm diameter were selected as the region of interest at the center of the tube on 10 axial planes. The mean gray value and standard deviation of ROIs were calculated (P > 0.05) by Weighted three-way Anova and Tukey's Honest Significant Difference test.
Results.
Detector (P-value = 0.000) and position (P-value = 0.000) had statistically significant effect on mean gray value, while the effect of object was not significant. Object (P-value = 0.000) and position (P-value = 0.03) had statistically significant effect on gray value standard deviation, while detector was not significant.
Conclusions.
Since Lateral offset detectors create more artifact, it is suggested to use aligned detector in the presence of numerous metallic objects. Also, since same side metallic objects create more artifact compared to opposite side, it could be recommended to use aligned detectors in these instances.
Impact of environmental factors and climate conditions on the occurrence of Vibrio and Shewanella infections in Norway, 2014 – 2018
Authors: Salamanca Beatriz Valcarcel , King Andrew Luke , Deininger Anne , Hyllestad Susanne , Macdonald Emily , Naseer Umaer , Amato Ettore 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Vibrio and Shewanella spp. (VS) are climate-sensitive bacteria found in marine environments, which sometimes cause severe human infections. VS infections have risen globally, particularly in Northern Europe. In this study, we aimed to describe the epidemiology of VS infections in Norway and to explore marine environmental factors and climate conditions as predictors for public health responses.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study of VS infections reported in Norway from 2014 to 2018. Epidemiological data were collected through a nationwide survey of public health microbiology laboratories. Environmental data, including seawater temperature (SWT), salinity (SWS), atmospheric temperature (AT), and rainfall (RF), were obtained from Norwegian public monitoring systems. Negative binomial regression adapted for time-series data was used to estimate the short-term effect of marine environmental factors and climate conditions on the number of VS cases.
Results
A total of 303 VS infections were reported with most cases (63%) occurring in the Southeast region of Norway. SWT, SWS, and AT showed significant correlations with VS cases, with a gradual non-linear increase in VS risk for seawater temperature above 13°C [RR 1.60; CI(95%):1.02,2.8]. A 1-month lag effect was observed with increased SWT and AT predicting VS cases. No significant association was found for RF at the national level, but regional differences were observed.
Conclusions
VS infections in Norway are influenced by marine environmental factors and climate conditions. Validation of existing real-time models adapted to the regional conditions could enhance early public health responses to inform preventive measures for the at-risk population in Norway.
Factors associated with burnout, compassion fatigue, and moral distress among emergency nurses: A cross-sectional snapshot
Authors: Alshammari Salman Amish , Alsulami Amal , an Eddieson Pasay , Alshammari Ayedh , Pangket Petelyne , Alrashidi Maha Sanat , Cabansag Dolores , Alkubati Sameer , Mostoles Romeo , Lagura Grace Ann , Saguban Reynita , Rondilla Evalynn , Gonzales Analita 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Emergency nurses are particularly vulnerable to burnout, fatigue, and moral distress because of the demanding nature of their work. This study aimed to determine the significant predictors of burnout, compassion fatigue, and moral distress among emergency nurses with the goal of developing effective interventions to support their well-being and improve patient care.
Methods
A cross-sectional design was used to collect data using a Google Form questionnaire. A total of 290 Emergency Nurses from four government hospitals in Hail City, Saudi Arabia participated in this study. Data were collected between May and June 2024.
Results
Younger nurses (under 30 years old) experienced significantly higher levels of burnout (β = -0.803, p < 0.001), compassion fatigue (β = -25.577, p < 0.001), and moral distress (β = -2.381, p = 0.024). Male nurses reported notably higher levels of burnout (β = -6.532, p < 0.001) and moral distress (β = -71.073, p < 0.001) than female nurses. Nurses with less than 5 years of experience were more likely to suffer from burnout (β = -5.071, p < 0.001) and compassion fatigue (β = -32.234, p < 0.001). Night shift work (11 PM to 7 AM) was associated with higher levels of burnout (β = 3.151, p = 0.034), compassion fatigue (β = -35.021, p < 0.001), and moral distress (β = 58.509, p < 0.001). Higher education (master's degree) was associated with higher levels of moral distress (β = 181.996, p < 0.001). Social support was associated with lower levels of burnout (β = -8.726, p < 0.001) and compassion fatigue (β = -31.341, p < 0.001).
Conclusion
Younger age, male sex, less experience, night shift work, and inadequate social support emerged as significant predictors of burnout, compassion fatigue, and moral distress among emergency nurses. These constructs are interconnected, with high levels of one often leading to higher levels of others. To improve the health and well-being of emergency nurses, interventions should prioritize adequate workload management, stress reduction techniques, enhanced social support, targeted educational programs, and organizational support. Future research should explore the long-term impact of these stressors on nurses' health and patient outcomes, as well as the efficacy of specific interventions in mitigating burnout, compassion fatigue, and moral distress.
Kirners deformity – A systematic review and surgery recommendations
Authors: Fülling Tim , Baade Carsten , Dragu Adrian , Nicklas Antek 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: Kirner deformity is a rare anomaly of the little finger in adolescents, characterized by a deformity of the distal phalanx and a radiologically L-shaped epiphysis, along with palmar and radial angulation of the distal phalanx. Due to the rarity of these pathological findings, there are no systematic literature reviews available. This work serves as an overview of the clinical presentation, frequency and age distributions, as well as possible conservative and surgical treatment options.
Methods: We present five cases of patients with Kirner’s deformity of the little finger who underwent surgical treatment. A partial tenotomy of the flexor digitorum profundus tendon from the metaphyseal/diaphyseal distal phalanx was performed. In one case, a dorsal epiphysiodesis was also carried out.
Additionally, a systematic review of the literature on Kirner’s deformity was conducted, summarizing the prevalence, previously used surgical treatment options, and epidemiological data.
Results: In the presented cases, the detachment of the FDP tendon and dorsal epiphysiodesis resulted in a good functional and aesthetic outcome. Regarding the epidemiological distribution of Kirner deformity, it is noted that significantly more females are affected than males (63% vs. 36%). The average age at presentation in the respective clinic was 9.36 years (± 2.5). In more than half of all reported cases, the deformity was bilateral. Surgical intervention was performed in only 7.4% of cases, which included FDP detachment or corrective osteotomies. More than 90% of patients were treated conservatively.
Conclusion: Kirner’s deformity is a rare condition affecting adolescents. In cases where functional limitations or pain symptoms are present, we recommend surgical intervention via detachment of the FDP tendon. If the deformity is an incidental finding without functional or aesthetic limitations, conservative therapy with a corrective splint can be initiated. From our perspective, early surgical treatment before the age of 12 improves both the long-term functional and aesthetic outcomes.
Making Room for Friction: Boundary crossing in General Practitioners Residency
Authors: Meljes Iris , Irene A Slootweg , Maartje E.D. Bogaard , Anneke W.M. Kramer , Nierkens Vera 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Patient care is compromised when residents cannot use and connect knowledge and skills developed in multiple learning environments. Although efforts are made in postgraduate medical education (PGME) to align learning environments, the nature of learning in the workplace through patient care is fundamentally different from learning in a classroom at an educational institute. Residents perceive these learning environments as separate, non-overlapping worlds. However, residents' efforts to cross boundaries and connect multiple learning environments can provide important learning experiences and contribute to innovation. In this study, we investigated which learning mechanisms general practice (GP) residents use when crossing boundaries between the workplace and the educational institute. Understanding how residents cross these boundaries can facilitate connecting multiple learning and working environments. This can help innovate postgraduate medical education, considering ongoing societal changes and medical advances. We conducted a case study based on 3 cohorts of residents from an innovative GP residency program. This program included classroom-based and work-based training. Data were collected through individual interviews, focus groups, and activity logs between 2017 and 2021, and analyzed thematically. We identified four learning mechanisms that residents developed and used cumulatively. The first learning mechanisms are associated with friction and frustration, which must be overcome before residents can develop the next learning mechanism. Addressing friction and frustration in GP residency programs, along with providing adequate time and opportunities for peer collaboration, seems to facilitate the development of strategies to connect different learning environments. Furthermore, our study provides a basis for further research on how initial frustrations in connecting multiple learning environments can be used to benefit residents' development as professionals and lifelong learners.
Research on the Construction Method of the MCNN-LSTM-SVM Fusion Model for Thermal Error of the Precision Boring Machine Feed Axis with Small Samples
Authors: Yang Jun , Chao Zeng , Yang Murong Yang , Chao Wang Meng , Han Lei Mo , Qiao Liu Shi 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The thermal error samples of the machine tool feed system are limited and highly nonlinear, making it difficult for a single prediction model to accurately predict thermal errors under complex operating conditions. To improve prediction accuracy, this paper proposes a thermal error modeling method based on a fusion model of MCNN-LSTM-SVM tailored for small samples, combining deep learning with traditional machine learning algorithms. A Multi-Scale Convolutional Neural Network (MCNN) and Long Short-Term Memory Network (LSTM) work in parallel to extract the spatial and temporal features of thermal characteristic data, respectively, addressing the issues of insufficient spatial feature extraction by single-scale convolutional networks and feature loss caused by serial processing of convolutional networks and LSTM. Additionally, a Support Vector Machine (SVM) is introduced to replace the regression neural network layer for thermal error prediction, enhancing the prediction accuracy of small sample data. Experimental results demonstrate that the fusion model significantly outperforms CNN-LSTM, CNN, LSTM, and SVM in terms of RMSE, MAE, and Maximum Error (E-max), with a thermal error reduction approaching 75%. This provides an important reference for the application of this fusion model in thermal error compensation.
Discovering a safer drug candidate from Tribulus terrestris for the management of erectile dysfunction through integrated in-silico studies
Authors: Vishwakarma Riya , Koshy Abel John , Kalath Haritha , Ramakrishnan Krishnapriya , John Anish , Soman Sowmya , Raju Rajesh , Rehman Niyas , Revikumar Amjesh 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Conventional pharmacological therapies for erectile dysfunction (ED) primarily rely on PDE5 inhibitors such as Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Vardenafil, and Avanafil. While effective, these medications are reported to have side effects, especially among young men. Traditionally, plant-derived formulations with natural aphrodisiac potential have been used to treat ED, but they lack scientific validation. This study evaluates the efficacy of bioactive compounds from Tribulus terrestris in inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme located in the penile tissues, specifically smooth muscles of the corpus cavernosum. By selectively targeting PDE5, these compounds could effectively manage ED. Pharmacokinetic analysis of the phytochemicals from T. terrestris provides valuable insights into their suitability as drug candidates. The binding affinities of these phytochemicals with PDE5 were evaluated using in-silico approaches such as molecular docking and simulations. The top three phytochemicals from T. terrestris, Diosgenin,dehydro (-11.1 kcal/mol), Ruscogenin (-11.1 kcal/mol), and Hecogenin (-10.3 kcal/mol) showed higher negative binding affinities with the PDE5 enzyme, better than the control drug, Sildenafil (-8.8 kcal/mol). Hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions were the predominant forces influencing the interactions formed in the protein-ligand complexes. The ΔGbind binding free energy for the top three phytochemicals, Diosgenin,dehydro, Ruscogenin and Hecogenin was found to be -19.99 ± 5.99 kcal/mol, -9.05 ± 5.16 kcal/mol, -14.11 ± 5.33 kcal/mol, respectively. Among the three, Diosgenin,dehydro, a saponin obtained from T. terrestris, is showing higher negative binding affinity and therefore is identified as a promising candidate for PDE5 inhibition, promoting prolonged erections by delaying the degradation of cGMP and preventing penile venous drainage. Pharmacokinetic analysis and toxicity assessments support their potency to be safer and effective alternatives to synthetic drugs. Furthermore, clinical validations are warranted to confirm their efficacy in humans.
The role of the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis during embryonic lymphatic vascular development
Authors: Dierkes Cathrin , Hägerling René , Fabritus Lauriane , Shayan Raheleh R. , Orlich Michael M. , Nibbs Rob , Nagasawa Takashi , de Pavert Serge A. van , Kiefer Friedemann 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Tyrosine kinase receptors and their cognate ligands are critical regulators of vascular endothelial cell proliferation and survival. However, less is known about the ability of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily and their ligands to selectively shape the lymphatic vasculature in specific vessel beds or organs. The recently emerging roles of the chemokine receptor CXCR4 and its ligand CXCL12 in the formation of the cardiac and dermal arterial hierarchic vasculature, tip cell migration and lymph vessel guidance in mouse and zebrafish prompted us to revisit a potential function of the chemokine / receptor pair CXCL12 / CXCR4 during mouse lymphatic vessel development. We report here that the CXCL12 / CXCR4 axis is dispensable for the formation of the first primordial lymphatic structures, however, loss of Cxcr4 resulted in subtle differences in cell positioning during the formation of the dual contacts between the primordial thoracic duct (pTD) and the common cardinal vein and morphological changes in the nascent dermal lymphatics. We conclude that the CXCL12 / CXCR4 axis contributes to morphogenetic processes during fetal dermal lymphangiogenesis, but is dispensable for the initiation of lymphatic vessel development.
Hybrid Input Shaping and Hierarchical Sliding Mode Control Design for Tower Crane
Authors: Tong Thi Ly , Pham Vu Khanh , Duong Minh Duc 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

During trolley translation along the jib and jib rotation, a tower crane with an underactuated drive system can cause a considerable amount of sway to the payload. A number of studies have been performed to address this issue, with particular attention being paid to the use of sliding mode control (SMC), which has demonstrated effectiveness in tracking position and reducing vibrations. Some side effects of relying solely on SMC, however, include chattering and saturation of input signals. Our paper proposes using a combination of feed-forward input shaping (IS) and sliding mode control to overcome the control problems associated with a tower crane. Hybrid Input Shaping and Hierarchical Sliding Mode Control can reduce not only payload vibration but chattering and control input as well. In addition, the controller's parameters can be determined using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) to optimize a performance index. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed controller, experiments were conducted on a laboratory tower crane. Results showed that the hybrid IS-SMC structure has a similar response time as SMC, but the the total swing angle is reduced by 40%.