bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of Holder Pasteurization on Protein and eNAMPT/Visfatin Content in Human Breast Milk
Authors: Givonetti Annalisa , Galantin Chiara , Fiorilla Irene , Todesco Alberto Maria , Braghin Michela , Uga Elena , Cosi Gianluca , Audrito Valentina , Cavaletto Maria 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Human milk proteins, a mixture of whey proteins including caseins, milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) proteins, various peptides, and their amino acids, play a crucial role in infant growth and development, as do non-nutritional bioactive components. The extracellular nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (eNAMPT) or visfatin is a conserved cytokine/enzyme released by many mammalian cells, related to multiple metabolic and immune processes. Few investigations have been reported about detecting visfatin in skimmed milk and the hypothesis of its potential role in regulating infant adiposity through breast milk. Milk samples from a donated human milk bank were analyzed. After milk fractionation, skimmed milk and MFGM were analyzed by SDS-PAGE and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. An ELISA assay assessed visfatin content in skimmed milk, while MFGMs were analyzed by Western blot. The data showed a higher visfatin content in raw skimmed milk than in pasteurized samples. This is the first time visfatin has been identified associated with MFGM. Its levels appear to be higher in MFGM derived from pasteurized milk than in raw milk, an opposite result to that obtained by analyzing the skimmed milk samples. These results suggest the visfatin involvement in the features of MFGMs and their potential role for infants.
Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy in chronic kidney disease: A study of kidney biopsy cases
Authors: Kuno Hideaki , Kanzaki Go , Oba Rina , Sasaki Takaya , Haruhara Kotaro , Koike Kentaro , Tsuboi Nobuo , Yokoo Takashi 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
The interplay between cardiac and kidney functions is mediated by the autonomic nervous system. Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is a well-documented dysfunction of this system, with heart rate variability (HRV) serving as the principal diagnostic tool. CAN is recognised as a prognostic marker for adverse kidney outcomes in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). However, the pathogenesis of CAN in patients with non-diabetic chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains underexplored. This study explored the clinicopathological correlates of CAN in individuals with non-diabetic CKD.
Methods
This cross-sectional analysis evaluated 162 non-diabetic patients with CKD who underwent kidney biopsy from 2020 to 2023. HRV was quantified using the coefficient of variation of the RR interval (CVRR). Clinicopathological characteristics were compared across tertile groups stratified according to CVRR values.
Results
The median patient age was 47.0 (34.0–57.0) years, and 50.9% were male. The median estimated glomerular filtration rate was 65.0 (42.0–85.0) mL/min/1.73 m2, and the CVRR was 3.5 (2.4–4.7) %. Low CVRR group was frequently associated with kidney dysfunction, dyslipidemia, advanced interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy (IF/TA) and arteriosclerosis. Multivariable analysis revealed that IF/TA was associated with CVRR, independent of established risk factors for CAN (P = 0.045).
Conclusions
This investigation revealed that IF/TA was the renal histopathological feature most strongly correlated with CAN in patients with non-diabetic CKD
Application of clay minerals in the synthesis of Cretaceous mudstones and microstructural analysis of their deterioration mechanism
Authors: Yan Shuai , Han Lijun , Meng Lingdong , Zhao Weisheng 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The Cretaceous mudstone undergoes significant argillization and disintegration when in contact with water due to its high content of clay minerals, posing a severe challenge to the stability of roadways in coal mines during construction and operation. This research aimed to prepare water-sensitive mudstone–like materials by the method of clay mineral composition similar to that of natural Cretaceous mudstone to reproduce the mechanical and hydraulic properties of natural rocks and meanwhile reveal the deteriorating effect of clay minerals on its microstructure and macroscopic properties. Using binary clay-gypsum mixtures and considering the aggregate-binder ratio, the clay-gypsum ratio, the iron sand content in fine sand, and the powder sand content in aggregate as controlling factors, 16 groups of proportioning schemes were established using the orthogonal test method and a series of physic mechanical experiments were conducted to determine its mechanical and hydraulic properties. Subsequently, sensitivity analysis was applied to characterize the effects of different influencing factors on mudstone-like materials' mechanical and hydraulic properties. The result shows that the distribution ranges of physical, mechanical, and hydraulic parameters of the newly prepared similar material overlap noticeably with those of the natural mudstone, suggesting that this new material can better meet the requirements of modeling natural mudstone. In addition, the range analysis showed that the aggregate-binder ratio was the dominant factor for the material's UCS, E, and cohesion, while the clay-gypsum ratio had a significant effect on its density and disintegration time. Then, qualitative and quantitative microstructural analysis was carried out on the SEM images of the four samples based on kaolinite-gypsum binary mixtures by Avizo software via the dynamic threshold segmentation method. The result indicates that the material microscopic parameters, such as pore size distribution, equivalent diameter, porosity, fractal dimension, etc., are significantly altered with the increase of kaolinite content, resulting in a marked deterioration of the material's micromechanical properties. This mineralogical and microstructural change transforms the cementation type from homogeneous and dense crystalline cementation to anisotropic and loose argillaceous cementation, exhibiting strong water sensitivity and extremely weak macro mechanical properties, which explains the deterioration and disintegration mechanism of natural mudstones from a micro mineralogical point of view. Importantly, the synthesis and microstructural analysis method based on mineralogy proposed in this study may be widely employed in rock mechanics and engineering.
Fault Geometry and Kinematics Within the Anatolian Microplate from Restored Pleistocene Lava Flows
Authors: Korkmaz Gülin Gencoglu , Harvey Janet C. , Danišík Martin , Schoenbohm Lindsay , Schmitt Axel 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Kinematic constraints on faults with slow slip rates often diverge, obscuring their neotectonic significance and seismic hazards. The Tuz Gölü Fault Zone (TGFZ) is a slow-moving fault accommodating intraplate deformation within central Anatolia, for which long-term geological and short-term geodetic deformation rates disagree. Here, the Pleistocene–Recent kinematic evolution of the TGFZ is determined by dating dissected lava flows of the Hasandağ stratocone. Combined zircon U-Th and (U-Th)/He ages indicate emplacement between 151 ± 6 ka and 38.8 ± 2.0 ka (2σ uncertainties). Restoring flow levees as tie points across fault scarps yields vertical displacement rates of 0.90 ± 0.06 mm/a for the most reliable projection, whereas only negligible dextral strike-slip at 0.01 ± 0.08 mm/a is permitted. Predominantly normal faulting along the TGFZ since the Middle–Late Pleistocene argues against tectonic models involving N-S directed shortening, and instead supports E-W directed extension of Central Anatolia as it escapes westward.
Reconstruction of high-resolution paleomagnetic variations in the middle Gauss Chronozone including the upper and lower boundaries of the Mammoth reversed subchronozone
Authors: Tanimoto Akihiro , Okada Makoto , Hayashi Ryota 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

In this study, we provide paleomagnetic records, including the upper and lower boundaries of the Mammoth reversed subchronozone, reconstructed from a continuous outcrop of the upper marine Pliocene in the southernmost part of the Boso Peninsula, which is more than 200 m thick. In this interval, the Mammoth reversed subchronozone was recognized in an interval of approximately 50 m thickness, including a polarity transition zone at its lower boundary of approximately 10 m thickness. Simultaneously, the upper boundary showed no polarity transition zone and a rapid polarity reversal, suggesting a probable lack of strata. Several significant variations were recognized in the paleomagnetic directions in the middle Gauss chronozone, some of which may qualify as new geomagnetic excursions. The relative paleointensity (RPI) around the lower Mammoth boundary was significantly attenuated compared to that of the average of the entire section. Additionally, the Virtual geomagnetic pole (VGP) path of the lower Mammoth boundary exhibits clustering around the North American Continent, moves to the southern hemisphere across the equatorial Pacific region, and clusters again in the eastern Antarctic continent immediately after migration. The new paleomagnetic record obtained in this study is one of the highest temporal resolution continuous paleomagnetic records for the Late Pliocene. Therefore, the results of this study are expected to contribute to clarifying the geodynamic mechanisms and development of Pliocene magnetostratigraphy using RPI records.
A Complete Response with Daratumumab, Venetoclax, Azacitidine and Dexamethasone in a Heavily Pre-treated, Chemo-refractory Early T-Precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia/Lymphoma Patient
Authors: Kaya Süreyya Yiğit , Vatani Mehrad , Akil Rima , Çakir Tansel , Maral Senem , Kaynar Leylagül , Sevindik Ömür Gökmen 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Early T-precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (ETP-ALL/LBL) is a rare and aggressive subtype of T-cell leukemia with poor prognosis and resistance to standard treatments. We report a 21-year-old male with ETP-ALL/LBL who, after an initial complete remission with the HOELZER protocol, experienced early relapse and was refractory to subsequent FLEND and BFM protocols. Following disease progression and complications, he was treated with a combination of daratumumab, venetoclax, azacitidine, and dexamethasone. This regimen achieved complete remission after one cycle. This case highlights the potential of this combination therapy as an effective treatment for refractory ETP-ALL/LBL, suggesting further research is warranted to validate its efficacy and safety.
Videolaryngoscopy is associated with a lower rate of double-lumen endotracheal tube malposition in thoracic surgery procedures, retrospective single-center study
Authors: Kına Soner , Batıhan Güntuğ , Topaloğlu İhsan , Türkan Hüseyin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
The accurate placement of double-lumen endotracheal tubes (DLET) is crucial in thoracic surgery requiring lung isolation. This study aims to compare the accuracy and complication rates of DLT placement using videolaryngoscopy (VL) versus conventional direct laryngoscopy (DL).
Methods
This retrospective single-center study included 89 patients who underwent thoracic surgery with DLET placement between July 2023 and May 2024. Patients were divided into two groups: VL (n=45) and DL (n=44). Patient characteristics, intubation times, malposition rates, and complications were recorded. DLT position was confirmed using fiberoptic bronchoscopy.
Results
The incidence of DLET malposition was significantly lower in the VL group (13.3%) compared to the DL group (31.8%) (p=0.037). The overall complication rate was also lower in the VL group (4.4%) compared to the DL group (11.4%) (p=0.024). The mean time from anesthesia induction to the first incision was shorter in the VL group (25.2 ± 6.1 minutes) than in the DL group (28.3 ± 6.5 minutes) (p=0.02).
Conclusions
VL significantly reduces the incidence of DLET malposition and associated complications in thoracic surgery compared to DL. The improved visualization and multiple blade options of the C-MAC videolaryngoscopy set likely contribute to these findings. Further research is warranted to confirm these results in larger, multicenter studies.
Trial registration
Institutional Review Board (Registration number: 80576354-050-99/437)
Real time visualization of Bax- Bcl-xL interaction dynamics during the progression of cell cycle and cell death using FRET FLIM
Authors: Halikar Aman Munirpasha , Chandrasekharan Aneesh , Lekshmi Asha , Sivasailam Aswathy , J Jain Tiffee P , Tiwari Shivanshu Kumar , Rather Aijaz Ahmad , Santhoshkumar T. R. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Genetically identical cells in a population show cell-to-cell variability in response and phenotype. Epigenetic differences, stochastic fluctuations, cell cycle-dependent or independent variations in protein expression, and many unknown factors contribute to this heterogeneity. In addition to protein variations, post-translational modifications and protein-protein interactions generate heterogeneity between cells that could be cell cycle-dependent or independent. Spatiotemporal analysis of protein-protein interaction with cell cycle is essential to understanding such interaction heterogeneity and their role in driving cell cycle or cell fate decisions.
Methods
Here, we have developed an approach to visualize the interaction of two well-known competing pro-death and anti-death signaling partners, Bax and Bcl-xL, with the progression of the cell cycle and stress in live cells. Cells were stably expressed with Bax ECFP-Bcl-xL YFP FRET pair and CDT1 KO and miRFP Geminin for cell cycle tracking in U251 MG Glioblastoma cells. These cells were studied using Acceptor photobleaching FRET, FRET FLIM imaging, and coimmunoprecipitation during the cell cycle and stress.
Results
The study reveals significant interaction heterogeneity between Bax and Bcl-xL in unperturbed isogenic stable cells. The study demonstrated that FRET FLIM can track even subtle changes in protein-protein interaction between cells with high precision. Interestingly, both the partners exerted their regulatory control over the cell cycle; Bcl-xL inhibited cell cycle progression, and Bax promoted the cell cycle upon release from cell synchronization. The study highlighted increased Bax and Bcl-xL interaction in the G1 phase, which slowly declines with progression to the S and G2 phases. Increased interaction is seen in stressed conditions and Bax activation in FRET FLIM, an important finding on the nature of Bax- Bcl-xL interaction during cell stress.
Conclusions
Bax and Bcl-xL show cell cycle and cell stress mediated interaction heterogeneity which can be analyzed effectively with FRET FLIM microscopy. The approach described here of studying protein-protein interaction in real-time along with cell cycle stages offers great applications in understanding cell death and cell cycle.
HER-2 SMASH
Authors: ALANDAĞ Celal , ÖZTÜRK Ayşegül , YULAK Fatih , İNAN Zeynep Deniz ŞAHİN , ÖZKARACA Mustafa , LACIN Burak Batuhan , ALTUN Ahmet 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Human epidermal growth factor-2 (HER-2) targeted drugs are used in only HER-2 overexpressed cancers. However, only a small portion of these cancer types are HER-2 overexpressed. In this study, we aimed to upregulate HER-2 receptors in MCF-7 breast cancer and HT-29 colon cancer cell cultures, which these cells are not HER-2 upregulated in natural status.
Methods
We used a 10-day non-cytotoxic lapatinib dose to upregulate HER-2 receptors. HER-2 levels of these cell lines were tested with ELISA and immunofluorescence tests before and after 10 days of lapatinib administration. After upregulation of HER-2, we administered trastuzumab, and T-DM1 to these cell lines to observe whether there is an increase in anticancer activity. We used a cell viability test (XTT) to show the cytotoxicity of trastuzumab and T-DM1. Also, we used ELISA and immunofluorescence for HER-2 pathway proteins to understand the mechanism of increased anti-cancer activity.
Results
We showed that administration of lapatinib for 10 days leads to overexpression of HER-2 receptors on both MCF-7 and HT-29 cells. A significant increase in the cytotoxicity of trastuzumab or T-DM1 was observed after 10 days of lapatinib administration.
Conclusion
We named this method the smash method, which is the volleyball term. In volleyball, the ball is raised while low and quickly hits the ground again, just like we do with the HER-2 receptor. The smash method can switch HER-2 negative or HER-2 low tumors into HER-2 overexpressed, iatrogenically. Thus, we can use her2-targeted therapies in all cancer patients instead of a small portion.
Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice of Otitis media with effusion: A Cross-Sectional Study Among the General Chinese Population
Authors: Zeng Qinghan , Pan Zhongjing , Ma Tianpei , Zuo Jianrong , Xu Ting , Lu Dan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background Otitis media with effusion (OME) is a prevalent ear condition imposing a notable public health burden yet remains inadequately addressed. Understanding the community's comprehension and attitudes toward OME is pivotal for public health strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the current knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) concerning OME among the Chinese populace and gauge the educational demand for OME information.Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 973 participants in China. All participants were interviewed using an online questionnaire which was consisted of 34 questions, and tested their knowledge, attitude and practices on OME. Based on estimated knowledge scores, the general public was divided into low, moderate, and high knowledge levels. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests and logistic regression analysis were used to analyse the data.Results Results from 973 valid responses revealed that most participants lacked sufficient knowledge (68.0%) but held positive attitudes (83.8%) and displayed good care-seeking practices (80.2%) toward OME. The mean knowledge score was 23.64 ± 9.87 out of 58 points, with gender, age, and marital status influencing knowledge levels (P < 0.05), favoring women and those aged 25–35. Nearly eight out of ten respondents indicated positive medical practices when experiencing OME symptoms. A significant 83.8% expressed a desire for health education, with most concerned about OME prevention.Conclusion This study found that the general population in China lacks sufficient knowledge about OME, underscoring the importance of health education. However, most individuals still exhibited positive attitudes toward and practices regarding OME. Emphasizing the importance of healthcare education and promoting the benefits of active medical practice models in OME is crucial.
Experimental Investigation on the Carob Extraction using with Arrhenius Approach and Response Surface
Authors: Özel Mehmet Berkant , Durmaz Ufuk , Özdemir Mustafa , Yalçınkaya Orhan , Alsaiari Norah Salem , Alomairy Sultan , Al-Buriahi M. S. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Environmental problems are increasing in the world. The imperative for sustainable agricultural practices that demand minimal water and energy consumption is also increasing parallel. Carob fruit, which has many benefits to human health, is an eco-friendly product that should be evaluated economically. In Turkey, molasses has been produced from carob, grape, mulberry, apple, and pear for many years. However, conventional methods of molasses production often overlook crucial parameters to ensure optimal quality, such as extraction temperature and water quantity. The present study sheds light on the mass transfer rate coefficient during carob extraction, focusing on the influence of temperature and water quantity. The experimental study explores the rheological behavior of carob molasses with varying temperature and water quantity parameters. The Arrhenius approach elucidates the impact of temperature on mass transfer, proposing a novel equation to extract sugar and efficiently optimize energy consumption during water evaporation. The study also paves the way for applications across other fruit extraction processes.
Implementing Applied Methodologies in Differential Calculus Education: Problem-Solving and Project-Based Approaches
Authors: Vergara Fabrizzio 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of applied methodologies in the instruction of differential calculus for undergraduate students. By integrating problem-solving techniques and project-based learning, we aim to enhance students' comprehension and application of differential calculus concepts. The study involves a mixed-methods approach, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data to assess the impact of these methodologies on students' performance and engagement. Results indicate a significant improvement in students' understanding and retention of course material, as well as increased motivation and interest in mathematics.
Growth monitoring practices and associated factors among healthcare workers in Bale Zone, Oromia, Southeast Ethiopia. Cross-sectional study
Authors: Asfaw Tesfaye , Shemsi Sheka , Desalew Assefa , Tizazu Diribsa , Garoma Merga , Bekele Gadisa , Meseret Fentahun , Keneni Mulualem 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:Growth monitoring is a critical aspect of child healthcare that enables early identification of growth faltering and timely interventions. Competency in growth monitoring is crucial for implementing the practices, preventing malnutrition and its associated consequences. However, data on growth-monitoring practices among healthcare workers in Ethiopia are scarce. Hence, this study aimed to assess growth monitoring practices and their associated factors among health professionals working with under-five children in Bale Zone, Oromia, and Southeast Ethiopia.
Methods: A multi-facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 508 health professionals selected using simple random sampling techniques between May 31 and August 10, 2023. The data were collected using self-administered questionnaires. The collected data were entered into Epi-data v 4.6 and analyzed using SPSS v 25. A binary logistic regression model was employed to identify the factors associated with growth monitoring practices. Statistical significance was declared using an aOR of 95% CI and a p-value less than 0.05.
Results: Overall, the magnitude of good growth monitoring practices was 63.4% [95 CI: 59- 68]. The mean and SD of health professional age were 31.78 (± 3.92 SD). In multivariable logistic regression; The experience of health profession more than 11 years [aOR = 5.26; 95% CI: 3.14, 8.84], the health profession scored good knowledge [aOR = 5.11; 95% CI: 3.00, 8.71], favorable attitude of health workers [aOR = 2.58; 95% CI: 1.33, 5.00], the health workers received growth monitoring training [aOR = 3.98; CI: 2.47, 6.43], and the availability of growth monitoring equipment [aOR =3.52; CI: 2.19, 5.67] were significantly associated to growth monitoring practices.
Conclusion: Six out of ten healthcare professionals had good growth monitoring practices, which is relatively low compared to the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF's) recommendation. Health professional experience more than 11 years, the availability of growth monitoring equipment, health workers scored good knowledge, favorable attitude, and received training were significantly associated with good growth monitoring practices. Concerned stakeholders should work to improve growth monitoring practices through collaboration among healthcare providers, communities, and families. Moreover, staff training and sustainable supply and maintenance of growth monitoring equipment contribute to improving growth monitoring practices.